10-06-2025
Skeyeon Awarded Three Breakthrough U.S. Patents Advancing VLEO Satellite Technology
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Skeyeon, a pioneer in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite systems, today announced the issuance of three foundational U.S. patents that collectively redefine what is possible for long-duration, high-performance, low-cost space missions at altitudes below 300 km.
Significant Challenges in Very-Low-Altitude Space Missions solved: Endurance, Bandwidth, and Atmospheric Resistance
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These patents cover critical innovations in spacecraft architecture, communications, and materials science, each solving longstanding obstacles that have historically limited sustained operations in VLEO.
Newly Issued Patents:
Patent No. 12,258,307 – System for Producing Remote Sensing Data from Near-Earth Orbit
Issued: March 25, 2025
Inventors: Ronald E. Reedy, Thomas E. Schwartzentruber
Impact: Defines the baseline spacecraft design and mission-enabling parameters necessary for multi-year, low-cost VLEO satellite operations, including orbital mechanics, drag mitigation, and sensor integration.
Patent No. 12,267,146 – Radio Frequency Data Downlink for a High Revisit Rate, Near Earth Orbit Satellite System
Issued: April 1, 2025
Inventors: Dan Nobbe, Ronald E. Reedy
Impact: Introduces a novel, low-power communication method utilizing opposing phased array antennae—functioning like an inverted cellular system—to achieve ultra-high data rates in VLEO conditions, supporting daily re-imagery of the entire earth
Patent No. 12,311,634 – Atomic Oxygen-Resistant, Low Drag Coatings and Materials
Issued: May 27, 2025
Inventors: Timothy K. Minton, Thomas E. Schwartzentruber
Impact: Enables the use of specialized coatings that reduce atmospheric drag by over 50% while resisting the corrosive effects of atomic oxygen, unlocking affordable and durable VLEO missions.
'These patents represent major steps forward not just for Skeyeon, but for the future of Earth observation and real-time data systems,' said Dr. Ron Reedy, CEO and co-founder of Skeyeon. 'We've proven that with the right design, materials, and communications strategy, Very Low Earth Orbit is not only viable—it's the most efficient and powerful vantage point we have.'
With a strong and growing IP portfolio, Skeyeon continues to accelerate the deployment of resilient, high-revisit satellites for defense, commercial, industrial, and environmental monitoring and tracking, as well as global connectivity.
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