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ArkEdge Space successfully launched its micro-satellite AE1a on March 30, and has begun initial checkout following the establishment of communications through test radio signals.
AE1a is a technology demonstration satellite developed to advance maritime digitalization by enabling wide-area, real-time vessel tracking and communications. The satellite adopts ArkEdge Space’s standardized 6U satellite bus in its large-antenna configuration. In addition to demonstrating a deployable antenna for VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) applications, AE1a will improve and validate core technologies for a VDES receiver.
AE1a will operate in coordination with AE1d, which began operations in January 2025, and AE3Va, which began operations in June 2025, forming a three-satellite constellation for demonstration across wide-area maritime areas.
AE3Va continues to acquire AIS signals across multiple sea areas, including waters around Japan and vessel-congested areas along critical shipping lanes. Accumulated reception data is being systematically verified and analyzed.
Going forward, the program will advance from reception-focused demonstration to two-way communications, including transmission from orbit. This will enable satellites to deliver operational information directly to vessels, expanding the scope of VDES demonstration and advancing progress toward concrete use-case validation across the maritime sector.
