The satellite industry is set for unprecedented transformation, with the impact of cloud-based systems, the introduction of next-generation NGSO broadband constellations, and convergence towards a unified 5G network architecture. However, ground segments will also have to play a pivotal role to allow the industry to fully embrace and benefit from these changes.

The 2022 NAB Show will explore the ongoing deployment of Next Gen TV in broadcast television markets across the country and how broadcasters are utilizing the cutting-edge transmission standard to develop consumer-friendly features, capitalize on new content opportunities and unlock new revenue streams. Next Gen TV exhibits, demonstrations and sessions will take place throughout NAB Show, held April 23–27 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full-year 2021 and issued its full-year 2022 guidance. Net loss was US$ 5.9 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2021, as compared to net loss of US$ 7.9 million, or $0.06 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2020. This improvement was primarily the result of higher commercial service revenue and lower interest expense.

The World Teleport Association (WTA) today published its annual rankings for the Top Teleport Operators of 2021. The annual rankings of companies by revenue and revenue growth are compiled by surveying teleport operators around the world as well as referencing the published results of publicly-held companies.

Satellite imaging company Satellogic Inc. today announced that it has completed its previously announced merger with CF Acquisition Corp. V (Nasdaq: CFV) (“CFV”), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) sponsored by Cantor Fitzgerald. The merger was approved at a special meeting of CFV stockholders on January 24, 2022. Beginning January 26, 2022, Satellogic’s Class A ordinary shares and warrants will trade on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbols “SATL” and “SATLW,” respectively.

Rotoiti, a space consulting firm, interviewed several finance experts in the space industry. This brief, based on those conversations, summarizes the risks and benefits that venture capital poses to space firms.

Network Innovations has acquired ground systems integrator STS Global Inc., Over the years, STS Global has provided services to connect clients in remote locations, transmit crucial data, provide secure networks, and more to ensure reliable services anywhere on earth.

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“ today announced it has closed the previously-announced transaction to acquire SolAero Holdings, Inc. (SolAero), a supplier of space solar power products and precision aerospace structures for the global aerospace market, for US$ 80 million in cash.

Rocket Lab announced the execution of the agreement to acquire SolAero on December 13, 2021 pending certain closing conditions. 

My choice of title for this month’s column is but a mirror to the complexities of what is to many, but certainly not to all, the rather remote topic of satellite regulation. If perhaps rather obscure, satellite regulation is something we certainly cannot do without; utter chaos would follow from its absence.

We begin 2022 entering the 25th month of the global COVID-19 pandemic, with yet a new variant of the virus wreaking havoc on recovery plans worldwide.  I can only describe the times we live in as Charles Dickens did in a "Tale of Two Cities" that "these are the best of times and these are the worst of times. " And yet there is a lot to be optimistic about 2022 and beyond.  Just to provide some perspective, the number of satellites launched in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic is almost equal to all the satellites launched in the previous three decades.