SES has launched SATLAS, a business incubator that aims to turn pioneering ideas from a variety of fields, including e-learning, energy, Fintech, resource management, smart cities, media, logistics, and many others, into successful Satcom applications.

SATLAS will support entrepreneurs with innovative Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services ideas which could benefit from satellite communications.

This backing will support design, development and testing of their products, with both business and technical resources. The ultimate aim is that these ideas become viable Satcom solutions.

The project is co-funded under European Space Agency's ARTES 3 - 4 SATCOM - APPS programme. The industrial consortium partners SES Techcom Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SES, Newtec and SatADSL will provide selected applications with access to resources and services including broadband platforms and terminals, hardware, software and technical assistance, and training.

Through SATLAS, the innovators will be able to validate their ideas, running a test phase (pilot) with the support of SES Techcom and its partners.

"SES takes great pride in being at the forefront of innovation within the satellite communications sector, and this new incubator offers a great opportunity to the next generation of visionaries," said Gerhard Bethscheider, Managing Director at SES Techcom Services.

"With SATLAS, ideas can take shape, be tested and eventually be developed as part of a new wave of SATCOM applications."

The call for SATLAS applications is now open. A presentation on the programme will take place at the annual ARTES Applications Workshop, which will be held in Brussels on Thursday, April 28 and Friday, April 29.