MBS & Reflex: Powering the Next Frontier in Satellite Innovation

A visualization of SIGI in orbit

Written by Liam Hennessy, Content and Social Media Manager at Media Broadcast Satellite 

Launching a satellite takes colossal effort, especially when it’s your first one. With a long history in satellite communications, Media Broadcast Satellite GmbH (MBS) is now stepping into the New Space area. And that means deploying hardware into orbit; an area where speed, flexibility and innovation are paramount.  

MBS decided to partner with Reflex Aerospace, a startup specializing in the design of high-performance satellite platforms for the project. This collaboration resulted in SIGI: a high-performance, secure communications satellite. From concept to orbit, this project launched MBS’s first mission to the stars. 

MBS and Reflex Aerospace Start Their Collaboration 

There’s a lot to consider when launching your first satellite. There are unique performance requirements to fulfill. These requirements are often highly specific to the satellite’s hardware. Additionally, the team faced a strict development timeline. With this in mind, MBS’s New Space team and Reflex got to work.  

And so the collaboration began! After decades of sending signals into space via transmission beams, it was time to get rocket-ready. 

Orbital Precision: SIGI’s Mission Profile & Technical Capabilities 

SIGI operates in a 510 km Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) with an inclination of approximately 97.4°. With an inclination of approximately 97.4° and a local time of the ascending node (LTAN) set to 22:30, this orbit ensures consistent lighting conditions. This is an ideal setup for the satellite’s data and communication payloads. The mission lifespan is 1-3 years. With this mission layout, SIGI strikes a balance between longevity and technological agility. 

At the heart of the satellite is the Reflex ARC (Autonomous Reconfigurable Computer). The software-defined, modular, reconfigurable avionics unit has a processing power that can handle both payload and platform data in one box. Thanks to the ARC’s radiation tolerant design and configurable hardware and software, its interface ensures high adaptability to any mission. 

About MBS  

MBS is a leading service integrator and managed gateway operator. They enable global data and voice communications over satellite and terrestrial networks. Now they are expanding into space-based connectivity. 

The company's expertise spans legacy systems to advanced New Space solutions. MBS supports government and enterprise clients worldwide through robust infrastructure based in Germany.