Hubble Network is preparing to transform its satellite-powered Bluetooth infrastructure with an ambitious upgrade that promises to extend device battery life and enable global asset tracking for enterprise customers.
The Seattle-based startup has developed an advanced phased-array receiver that will enable what CEO Alex Haro describes as a “true Bluetooth layer around the Earth“ This technology will launch aboard two massive MuSat XL satellites from Muon Space in 2027, marking a significant expansion of the company’s space-based connectivity platform.
Enhanced Detection Capabilities
The upgraded satellites will detect Bluetooth Low Energy signals at power levels 30 times lower than current capabilities, according to Hubble Network. This improvement could substantially extend battery life for tracking tags and sensors deployed across various industries. The two MuSat XL spacecraft will provide 12-hour global revisit times, forming the backbone of Hubble’s BLE Finding Network for enterprise clients in logistics, infrastructure, and defense sectors.
Hubble Network achieved a breakthrough in 2024 when it became the first company to establish a direct Bluetooth connection to a satellite. The startup’s approach eliminates the need for specialized hardware, requiring only firmware integration with existing device chipsets to access the satellite network.
Aggressive Expansion Timeline
The company currently operates seven spacecraft in orbit and plans to reach 60 satellites by 2028. Hubble Network intends to upgrade its entire constellation to the larger MuSat XL platform to capitalize on enhanced power and performance capabilities.
This expansion schedule relies heavily on Muon Space’s manufacturing capabilities. The four-year-old company recently secured $146 million in funding and is building out its San Jose production facility to manufacture over 500 spacecraft annually by 2027. Gregory Smirin, president of Muon Space, noted that the XL platform “is a perfect size and capability for SDA Tranche missions“ referring to the Space Development Agency’s missile defense constellation program.
Space-as-a-Service Model
The partnership exemplifies Muon Space’s business model, which provides satellite design, manufacturing, and operations through its integrated Halo technology stack. This approach allows companies like Hubble Network to concentrate on payload development while outsourcing satellite infrastructure and mission operations.
Hubble Network represents the first customer for Muon’s 500-kilogram MuSat XL platform, which delivers multi-kilowatt power to payloads, optical crosslinks, high-volume downlink capabilities, and near real-time communications for time-sensitive applications. The collaboration also supports Muon Space’s broader strategy to compete for lucrative Department of Defense contracts.
The space-based network offers global visibility including remote areas, providing enterprises with asset tracking capabilities without requiring additional ground infrastructure investment.