sector

Space

At i2CAT, space means communications. We research technologies for a new paradigm: access to connectivity anytime, anywhere. Specialising in space communications and their connection to wireless communications, we focus on the intersection of ground-based and non-terrestrial networks. Our goal is to adapt, integrate, and deploy terrestrial networks in space, ensuring a transparent user experience. We develop use cases that leverage these technologies to solve today’s connectivity challenges.

As a multi-technology centre, our knowledge integrates IoT, AI, cybersecurity, and software-defined networks. We apply this expertise to unlock real-world connectivity issues.

We help future technology users assess their needs, defining and developing use cases that showcase viable solutions. These demonstrate the potential of hybrid networks—combining non-terrestrial and terrestrial— to create new services or extend existing ones across sectors such as critical infrastructure, emergency services, agriculture, logistics, and automotive.

Space

Technologies and services

NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks)

At i2CAT, we develop transformative solutions to provide seamless communication from space, pioneering the interoperability of NTN with terrestrial systems to offer ubiquitous and reliable connectivity, especially in remote or challenging environments where terrestrial networks fall short.

  • Regenerative payloads with 3GPP functionalities
  • 3GPP-based ground segments for NTN systems
  • Management algorithms for NTN constellations: mobility optimisation and context dissemination
  • Multi-tenancy, multi-stakeholder architectures
Integration and deployment of Hybrid Networks (NTN / TN)

We advance cutting-edge solutions for integrating and deploying hybrid networks (NTN/TN), ensuring dependable communication in areas underserved by conventional infrastructure. Our expertise tackles the complexities of implementing software-defined networking over satellite systems within multi-layered architectures.

  • Orchestration and virtualisation of network functionalities
  • Simulation of NTN constellations
  • Planning and management of NTN constellations
Quantum applied to Space Communications

i2CAT is at the forefront of securing the next generation of global communications, particularly for sensitive data. By advancing the integration of quantum-based protocols to enhance satellite communications, our work provides an improved level of security crucial to space communications.

  • Quantum Key Distribution for Satellite Communications
Flexible Payloads

At i2CAT, we are pioneering the evolution of space communications by developing cutting-edge technologies and methods to enable reconfigurable software-based payloads. This innovative approach enables satellite systems to dynamically adapt their functionality and optimise resource utilisation.

Inter-Satellite Link

Our teams at i2CAT are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of satellite communication by enhancing the fundamental connections within orbital networks. Our work on Inter-Satellite Links (ISLs) focuses on developing advanced algorithms, protocols, and devices to significantly improve the direct communication between satellites in orbit.

Space

Success stories

  • Use Case: Traffic Optimization through a Data Space

    Use Case: Traffic Optimization through a Data Space

    Framed in the Centre Demostrador d’Espais de Dades project, a use case has been developed in the field of mobility, with the aim of optimizing urban traffic management.

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  • i2CAT and Autopistas: Driving the Future of Smart Mobility Together

    i2CAT and Autopistas: Driving the Future of Smart Mobility Together

    At i2CAT, we are proud to highlight our long-standing and impactful partnership with Autopistas, a…

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  • Stepping into Tomorrow: How i2CAT’s Volum Technologies Revolutionises Immersive Communication

    Stepping into Tomorrow: How i2CAT’s Volum Technologies Revolutionises Immersive Communication

    After years of hard work, in 2025, we were finally ready to share a landmark…

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  • Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing: i2CAT’s Transformative Partnership with Bosch Aranjuez

    Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing: i2CAT’s Transformative Partnership with Bosch Aranjuez

    Forging a Vision – A Collaborative Journey Begins In 2019, i2CAT joined 11 distinguished partners…

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  • Empowering Society Through Programmable Networks: The Open Gateway Innovation Lab with MasOrange, Telefónica, and Vodafone Group

    Empowering Society Through Programmable Networks: The Open Gateway Innovation Lab with MasOrange, Telefónica, and Vodafone Group

    This is not a collaboration like any other. It is a groundbreaking partnership that is…

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  • i2CAT and Sateliot: A public-private partnership model recognised with the National Prize for Research

    i2CAT and Sateliot: A public-private partnership model recognised with the National Prize for Research

    The collaboration between the i2CAT Research Centre and Sateliot stands as an exemplary and pioneering…

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Space

Partners

Space

Latest news

Space

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