Telesat Lightspeed

Overview

Integrated low Earth orbit network built around a large MDA-made satellite constellation, landing stations, network software, and an ecosystem of user terminals. Lightspeed is aimed at telecom, enterprise, aviation, maritime, government, and defense users, with MEF-aligned service delivery, public/private interconnect options, and both commercial Ka-band and Mil-Ka service tiers.

Detailed engineering, software development, user terminal work, and ground segment buildout are underway. The first two production satellites are targeted for December 2026, heavy launches are planned through 2027, and full global commercial service is now expected around the end of Q1 2028 after an ASIC-related slip.

Key Specs