Univity Secures €27M Series A to Launch Two VLEO 5G Demo Satellites for Telecom Constellation

French startup Univity aims to build a new space infrastructure for telecom providers, focusing on integrating space into existing 5G networks. The company plans a constellation, uniSky, in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), an altitude typically below 450 kilometers, allowing for lower latency and improved signal strength compared to higher orbits. This approach targets ultra-high-speed broadband and direct-to-smartphone connectivity, designed to operate within telecom 5G spectrum.

Univity successfully closed a €27 million ($32 million) Series A funding round. This capital infusion will directly support the construction and launch of two VLEO 5G demonstration satellites. These demonstrators will validate key technologies: a 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) service, which extends mobile network coverage using satellites, and direct-to-cell connectivity, enabling standard smartphones to connect directly to space-based signals.

This funding accelerates Univity's strategy to enable telecom operators to expand their 5G footprint via space. Charles Delfieux, Univity founder, stated that the convergence of terrestrial and space networks is inevitable. He aims to position space as a direct extension of 5G networks, enhancing performance, competitiveness, and national sovereignty for operators. The industry will watch for the results of these upcoming satellite demonstrations.