The big picture: ReOrbit, a Finnish satellite maker, received €4.6 million from Business Finland to launch OrbitCloud, a private satellite network that runs AI inference directly in space. The program is expected to exceed €40 million in total value and targets military and industrial users who need communication systems that do not rely on ground infrastructure. This funding follows ReOrbit’s signing of a €150 million GEO satellite contract in March 2026. ReOrbit is aiming for €1 billion in sales over the next four years.
Why it matters:
- Decentralized processing: Most satellites rely on ground stations for data processing, which slows response times and creates single points of failure. OrbitCloud processes data onboard, eliminating this reliance.
- Enhanced reliability: ReOrbit’s satellites handle AI inference using processors connected by fast intersatellite links, with tasks shared for reliability so if one satellite fails, others can take over.
- Direct-to-device connectivity: OrbitCloud links drones and handheld devices directly to satellites using 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network standards, allowing operators in remote areas to get live data without ground stations.
How it works:
- Onboard AI inference: Instead of sending raw data to Earth for processing, ReOrbit’s satellites perform inference on board, sending processed information straight to drones or mobile devices.
- Ground infrastructure independence: The system provides real-time intelligence directly to operators without reliance on terrestrial infrastructure, critical for military and industrial applications.
- Scalable network: The initial €4.6 million grant funds the first R&D phase, with the overall program projected to exceed €40 million, laying the foundation for a larger space-based edge computing network.
The catch: In the direct-to-device satellite market, ReOrbit competes with well-funded players like AST SpaceMobile, Lynk Global, and Sateliot. While these competitors offer low Earth orbit links for mobile devices, none currently combine D2D connectivity with onboard AI inference at scale. ReOrbit’s success hinges on its ability to move from this initial grant to a program exceeding €40 million, deliver on its €150 million GEO contract, and double its staff, proving the viability of orbital AI as real infrastructure.
Key Facts
- Company: ReOrbit
- Amount: €4.6M
- Round: Grant
- Investor: Business Finland (lead)
- Founder: Sethu Saveda Suvanam
- Sector: SpaceTech
- Headquarters: Helsinki, Finland
