Home — OutThere Astronautics

The Messenger module

We're changing what 'in contact' means.

The Messenger module is a plug-and-play hardware device. It integrates with existing standard mechanical and electrical interfaces — no bus redesign, no extended integration program.

Once deployed in orbit, Messenger will autonomously integrate itself within the Extranet mesh network. What makes our system unique is its ability to operate effortlessly, with relaxed constraints on both spacecraft attitude and ground-based coordination operations. Unlike traditional optical systems that require complex, precise pointing, we've solved that challenge.

Optical, not radio

Messenger uses laser-based inter-satellite communication instead of radio, enabling higher bandwidth without RF interference or spectrum licensing. It provides an optical communications infrastructure purpose-built for constellations.

No spectrum license needed

ii.

Ad hoc

Combining a narrow beam and a wide-field receiver that continuously listens across its field of view, Messenger enables ad-hoc connection whenever needed. No pre-planned links or central network management. Designed to operate independently, Messenger minimises mission-planning requirements and impact on payload operations.

Our key differentiator

iii.

Plug and play

When designing Messenger, we've used standard mechanical and electrical interfaces for seamless integration with the satellite bus. No platform rebuild is required, allowing the focus to remain on the mission—not the complexities of integrating a communications system.

Standard interfaces

Key Advantages

No pointing required The only attitude-independent optical ISL currently in development for small satellites.

Drop-in compatible Works with the satellite bus you already have. No new platform required.

Keep it in the box We can fully integrate into the superstructure of the satellite without external protrusion.

Non-gimbaled Messenger removes the need for complex moving components, creating a more robust and reliable spacecraft design.

Messenger module — Preliminary Specifications

Subject to update as development progresses. Launch target: 2028.

Communication Method	Free-space optical (inter-satellite)
Form Factor	30x30x30 cm - or less
Field of View	120 degrees
Range	5,500 Km
Output Power	10-15W
Data Rate	1-2.5 Gbit
Pointing requirement	None · attitude-independent operation
Operator Link Planning Requirements	None · Ad hoc communications
Target Contact Latency	Less than 60 seconds from ground command
Integration Complexity	Plug and play
First Flight Target	2028

About OutThere

Built in New Zealand to solve a global problem.

From conception in an Auckland laboratory to impending launch, our mission has remained - we've set out to eliminate the biggest operational bottleneck in satellite operations: the ground station coverage gap.

Solving a problem this complex required a global team of expertise and innovation. From the ground-up, we brought together specialists from around the world who are deeply passionate about pioneering the next generation of space technologies and optical communication.

Our Messenger module creates an optical relay mesh through your satellite constellation — turning every spacecraft into a potential relay node, reducing contact latency from 80 minutes to 60 seconds, without requiring any changes to how you've built your bus.

2020

Year Founded

Emerged from the Auckland Programme for Space Systems.

60+

Years of Combined Insight

Our team combines six decades of shared industry experience to create the next step in satellite communication technology.

2028

First Flight Target

First on-orbit demonstration of the Messenger module in an operational constellation.