Satellite Networks

Eutelsat supports Polish rail connectivity trial

Satellite communications company Eutelsat says it has successfully completed its first rail connectivity trial in Poland aboard a long-distance train, demonstrating its OneWeb LEO connectivity capabilities on a live rail network.

The trial was led by local network solutions company ACO Solutions as the key systems integrator, with support from satellite operator HispaSat as the distribution partner and Eutelsat. It was conducted aboard a PKP Intercity long-distance train travelling at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour on routes connecting Kozlow in the south to the capital Warsaw and then Tczew in the north.

The trial used the Kymeta Kestrel u5 terminal, engineered to meet the tough and demanding requirements of the rail environment. The u5 recently received an official safety and quality certification from TÜV Rheinland, an independent testing organisation.

The Kestrel u5 is a lightweight, compact and rugged satellite terminal with uses across applications such as rail and unmanned vehicles. It features a high IP rating (IP69K) for durability and reliability, and optimised power consumption (averaging under 100W) for mobile platforms.

Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO connectivity was tested for the first time on a live rail network in Poland, gathering performance data and assessing seamless switching between satellite and terrestrial technologies throughout the journey.

Designed to support both passenger and freight rail operations, Eutelsat's rail connectivity solution combines its OneWeb LEO satellite connectivity with existing rail communications infrastructure to support passenger connectivity, operational communications and data services.

The solution interfaces with onboard and trackside systems, helping rail operators enhance communications capabilities in the field while maintaining connectivity with operations centres across their networks.

Eva Bisgaard, President of Eutelsat’s Connectivity Business Unit, explains: “Our solution gives rail operators the flexibility to prioritise different connectivity needs and evolve as passenger expectations and operational requirements change.”

Eutelsat’s rail support offering hasn't just involved Europe. Late last year we reported that Eutelsat was partnering with Airtel Gabon to provide OneWeb LEO satellite connectivity to passenger trains in Gabon to support on-board Wi-Fi services.



More Articles you may be Interested in...