Satellite communications and ultra-low-bandwidth video streaming can be used with long-range UAV operations, writes Nick Flaherty.

Gotonomi and Videosoft are combining their technologies to simplify UAV live video streaming for operations beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).

The Videosoft low-bandwidth video software is being integrated into Gotonomi’s Velaris Multi-Link satellite communication module, which works with the Viasat Velaris satellite system. This will allow real-time video from UAVs, even in areas without cell or direct radio coverage.

Secure video transmission from a UAV lets operators perform tasks such as surveillance and monitoring in remote or hazardous areas, which are too dangerous or inaccessible for people to reach directly, to provide an emergency response.

The Velaris Multi-Link module is a low size, weight and power hybrid terminal with integrated edge computing using a System on Module (SoM) with an i.MX 8M processor from NXP Semiconductor.

The processing subsystem measures 140 x 95 x 15 mm (5.5 x 3.7 x 0.6 in) and weighs 230 g (8.1 oz). The module has an average power consumption of 18 W, with a peak of 27 W, and provides the link in the L band at 1518-1559 MHz or 1626-1675 MHz. This satellite link provides data rates of up to 200 Kbit/s between an elevation of 20° and 90°, and 130 Kbit/s between 5° and 90°, which requires data compression for real-time video links.

The SoM lets custom applications such as Videosoft’s video-compression software process data for streaming over the Velaris satellite via the Gotonomi 200-A OMNI standalone antenna, measuring 103 mm (4.1 in) in diameter and 72 mm (2.8 in) high, and weighs 210 g (7.4 oz).

The Videosoft compression technology enables real-time video from 500 Kbit/s to as low as 4 Kbit/s. The module includes an LTE module, providing low-latency 4G cellular communications for redundancy.  “There was always a vision for the requirement of edge compute to add value to UAVs operating in BVLOS situations, and video compression has become a lead application,” said Matthew Hill, general manager at Gotonomi. “This is a great demonstration of why both parties are part of Viasat’s Velaris network, and why its L-band network is suitable for safe and scalable BVLOS operations.”