Government

Civil sector

Infrastructure for societal needs

Modern civil society relies on robust and stable communication infrastructure to function effectively. Space Norway develops and operates critical infrastructure in Norway, highlighting its significance as an important business area.

Fibre cables – connecting the archipelago.

One of Space Norway’s most critical responsibilities for the civil sector is maintaining the fibre cables to Svalbard. Without these cables, sustaining a modern society on the archipelago would be impossible. It is a key principle that the services Space Norway provides to entities on Svalbard are sold on commercial terms. Importantly, Space Norway does not receive operational funds from the state budget.

The current two fibre cables to Svalbard are guaranteed to be operational until the end of 2028. Beyond this period, their functionality cannot be assured. Therefore, Space Norway plans to lay a new fibre cable to Svalbard in conjunction with the cable installation to Jan Mayen. This approach will be both time-efficient and cost-saving. However, the project depends on securing funding.

 

Find out more about fibre cables to Svalbard
Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Photo: Randi Ellingsen, Space Norway
Statsat – operator of microsatellites.

Statsat, a subsidiary of Space Norway, has operated the AIS (Automatic Identification System) microsatellites for the Norwegian Coastal Administration. These small, cost-effective satellites are well-suited for tracking and monitoring maritime traffic, aiding search and rescue missions, and supporting environmental protection efforts. The AIS system enhances maritime safety and security by providing real-time information about the location, speed, and course of ships.

Statsat was established to safeguard Norwegian interests in space infrastructure for public purposes. The company acquires and operates space infrastructure for Norwegian governmental purposes, delivering services to governmental entities in a cost-effective manner.

Currently, Statsat operates the NorSat satellites in orbit. Additionally, the company manages the satellite antenna in Vardø on behalf of the Norwegian Coastal Administration.

 

For more information about Statsat services, please contact us.

Visiting address:

Statsat
Drammensveien 165
Postboks 66 Skøyen
0212 Oslo

Contact person:

Ivar S. Spydevold
CEO, Statsat
E-mail: ivar.spydevold@statsat.no
Telephone: +47 22 51 00 00

NirSat 1 and 2 in orbit to deliver satellite services for civil sector. Illustration: T. Abrahamsen, Space Norway