The SSC Connect network. Photo: SSC

Swedish Space Corporation (SSC) has signed a new deal with a university and a company in Latvia. The company announced July 13 that it will partner with Ventspils University of Applied Sciences (VUAS) and VIRATEC, adding the VUAS large antennas to the SSC Connect network.

This will increase SSC’s capability to support a wide range of mission types including lunar and deep space missions. VIRATEC is owned by VUAS, and was set up as the commercial arm of VIRAC – Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre, a research institute at VUAS. One of their goals is to develop the space industry as well as ground segment capabilities in Latvia.

SSC is expanding its global network of SSC CONNECT Lunar stations to meet the growing market demand. As part of this effort, SSC has added a new partner site in Latvia. This collaboration further strengthens SSC CONNECT’s existing lunar capabilities. This aims to solidify the SSC’s position as a key provider of communication services in the lunar and deep space market segment.

“This teaming with SSC means that we can leverage their global presence in utilizing our infrastructure-based services for the global space industry and future lunar and deep space missions. We are glad to be part of SSC’s ambitious journey to further strengthen its position as a leading provider of lunar ground station services,” Marcis Donerblics, head of VIRAC Engineering & Technical Operations group and CTO of VIRATEC, said in a statement.