Nxgsat: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Nxgsat is a pioneering Belgian technology startup revolutionizing satellite telecommunications by developing software-defined 5G satellite communication modems. Founded in 2024, Nxgsat is focused on bridging the gap between terrestrial 5G networks and satellite communications, enabling seamless integration and connectivity worldwide, even in remote or underserved areas. Their innovative virtual modem technology supports multi-orbit satellite compatibility and is built on open 3GPP 5G NR Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) standards, promising to disrupt the conventional satellite communications market dominated by proprietary hardware. Below are ten key insights about Nxgsat that shed light on its background, technology, and transformative potential.

1. Foundation and Mission

Nxgsat was established in January 2024 in Ghent, Belgium, by satellite communication veterans Alain Rolle and Frederik Simoens. The company's core mission is to deliver universal, secure, and flexible connectivity by integrating satellite and terrestrial 5G networks using open standards. Nxgsat envisions a future where satellite communications are accessible and interoperable, eliminating the current limitations of closed, hardware-specific systems and enhancing digital sovereignty, especially across Europe. This vision aligns with growing European initiatives promoting multi-orbit broadband constellations.

2. Innovative Software-Defined 5G Satellite Modem

At the heart of Nxgsat’s technology is a software-defined 5G satellite modem compliant with the 3GPP 5G New Radio NTN standard. Unlike traditional satellite modems that rely on proprietary and expensive hardware, Nxgsat’s virtual modem operates on standard commercial off-the-shelf equipment or flat-panel antennas. This approach makes it hardware-agnostic, enabling easy adoption across different satellite networks and reducing costs and complexity in hybrid satellite-terrestrial connectivity deployments.

3. Bridging Satellite and Terrestrial Networks

Nxgsat’s technology is designed to seamlessly integrate satellite networks with 5G terrestrial infrastructure. This capability allows mobile network operators and satellite providers to offer unified connectivity, enabling users to switch between terrestrial and satellite networks without interruption. This hybrid connectivity model is critical for extending reliable communications to remote areas such as oceans, rural regions, disaster zones, and places where terrestrial infrastructure is sparse or unavailable.

4. European Space Agency and Industry Support

Nxgsat has garnered support and development assistance from prominent institutions such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and has been nominated for prestigious awards like the Deloitte Private Technology Fast50 Rising Star Award. The company actively contributes to European digital sovereignty ambitions by supporting projects like IRIS², a planned multi-orbit sovereign broadband constellation initiative aimed at enhancing Europe’s autonomous connectivity capabilities.

5. Financial Backing and Growth Trajectory

In October 2025, Nxgsat secured €1.2 million ($1.4 million) in seed funding, led by European investment firms PMV and Imec.istart Future Fund. This investment supports the company’s product development and workforce expansion ahead of its anticipated commercial modem release in the second quarter of 2026. Nxgsat’s rapid progression has positioned it as one of Belgium’s fastest-growing technology startups focused on space and telecommunications innovation.

6. Experienced Leadership Team

Nxgsat’s leadership brings decades of combined experience in satellite communications and technology innovation. Co-CEOs Alain Rolle (also CTO) and Frederik Simoens leverage their backgrounds from companies like ST Engineering iDirect to steer Nxgsat toward transforming the satellite modem industry. Their expertise in both engineering and business development drives strategic partnerships and product excellence that differentiate Nxgsat in a competitive market.

7. Industry Recognition and Awards

Nxgsat was named “Next Unicorn - Rising Star with the Biggest Potential” by imec.istart, recognizing its disruptive potential in satellite communications. This honor acknowledges the company's innovative use of AI, software, and 5G NTN standards to reimagine satellite modem functionality. The accolade highlights Nxgsat’s promise to shape the future connectivity landscape, bringing scalability and interoperability to global satellite networks.

8. Hardware-Agnostic Platform Benefits

The hardware-agnostic nature of Nxgsat’s modem software means it can be deployed on widely available commercial hardware platforms rather than proprietary satellite components. This flexibility accelerates integration with various satellite constellations and terrestrial equipment, fostering competitive innovation and interoperability. Customers benefit from reduced capital expenses and increased freedom to choose from different network providers and technologies.

9. Role in Future 5G/6G Ecosystem

Nxgsat is positioned at the forefront of next-generation connectivity efforts, aiming to unlock the full potential of 5G and future 6G networks by embedding satellite access natively into these ecosystems. Their modem technology supports Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), which several mobile operators and governments are exploring as vital to ensuring ubiquitous coverage and reliable global internet access, especially in remote and mobile scenarios.

10. European Digital Sovereignty and Multi-Orbit Connectivity

In addition to commercial goals, Nxgsat contributes to the broader European strategic objective of enhancing digital sovereignty and sustainable connectivity. By facilitating open standards-based satellite access, Nxgsat helps Europe reduce dependence on foreign satellite infrastructure, supports multi-orbit networks, and promotes sustainable resource use. Their technology is expected to play a significant role in upcoming European satellite broadband constellations and various international projects.

Conclusion

Nxgsat is an exciting and innovative Belgian startup reshaping satellite communication by bridging terrestrial 5G and satellite networks with open, software-defined technology. Founded by seasoned industry experts, the company’s 5G NTN-compliant virtual satellite modem promises to break down longstanding connectivity barriers caused by proprietary hardware and closed systems. With strong European institutional support, robust financial backing, and cutting-edge technology, Nxgsat is poised to play a vital role in the future of global connectivity — offering seamless, accessible, and cost-effective satellite communications for diverse users worldwide. The question remains: how quickly can Nxgsat’s vision accelerate the adoption of hybrid terrestrial-satellite networks to fully realize global seamless connectivity?