Unseenlabs, a notable French entity in the realm of space-based radio frequency (RF) detection, has announced its plans for launching two new satellites, BRO-17 and BRO-20.
This mission, named “LEVEL TWENTY,” is set to take off in November from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, utilising SpaceX’s Transporter-15 rideshare mission in collaboration with Exolaunch, a satellite integration service provider.
Expansion of BRO satellite constellation
The deployment of BRO-17 and BRO-20 marks a significant milestone in the expansion of Unseenlabs' BRO satellite constellation, signifying its evolution into a vital component in space-based RF detection globally.
The firm's proprietary technology enables the detection and localisation of various vessels by capturing their electromagnetic emissions, even those not tracked by conventional monitoring systems.
Monosatellite detection approach
Unseenlabs has gained international recognition for its unique monosatellite detection method
Established in 2015, Unseenlabs has gained international recognition for its unique monosatellite detection method, which allows signal geolocation using just a single satellite, unlike other systems that require multiple sensors.
This innovative approach provides rapid, lightweight, and accessible data with each satellite pass covering approximately 300,000 km² and performing thousands of RF detections daily.
The European Space Agency (ESA) has already selected Unseenlabs for its Copernicus Contributing Missions programme.
Unseenlabs’ campaigns
Unseenlabs' capabilities are increasingly crucial for addressing challenges like illegal fishing, marine pollution, and trafficking.
For instance, one campaign in the Bay of Bengal found that nearly 10% of detected signals were missing from existing monitoring systems. In the Pacific Ocean's High Seas Pockets, that figure increased to 47%, showcasing the scale of unreported maritime activities.
Next generation of satellites
The company plans to roll out its second generation of satellites, which will expand RF monitoring abilities
According to Clément Galic, CEO and Co-Founder of Unseenlabs, "The launch of BRO-17 and BRO-20 represents a major milestone for Unseenlabs and the robustness of our technology. Our satellites already provide decision-makers with crucial data to fight illegal fishing, monitor sensitive areas, and better understand strategic maritime dynamics."
He adds, "This launch also paves the way for our next generation of satellites, which will extend RF detection to land and space domains."
Starting in 2026, the company plans to roll out its second generation of satellites, which will expand RF monitoring capabilities to include land and space sectors.
Broader range of signals
This expansion will allow Unseenlabs to detect a wider array of signals and enhance its position as a pioneer in space-based RF intelligence.
By broadening the scope to multi-domain monitoring, the company is poised to take a significant step forward in RF detection and intelligence-gathering efforts.
