Satellite Partnership Summit

Satellite connectivity is entering a new era: not as a replacement for terrestrial networks, but as a strategic partner that extends their reach, resilience, and value. As spectrum acquisitions accelerate, device manufacturers add satellite capabilities, and operators explore supplemental coverage from space, the industry is shifting toward an integrated model where non-terrestrial networks enhance the terrestrial foundation rather than compete with it.

The Satellite Partnership Summit convenes operators, satellite providers, policymakers, and infrastructure leaders to explore this emerging collaboration. We will examine the physics, economics, and regulatory realities that keep towers at the center of the network, while highlighting the scenarios where satellite fills critical gaps and expands what wireless networks can deliver.

Ground-based infrastructure remains the backbone. Satellites are becoming the bridge. This is where the partnership takes shape.

Schedule of Events:

1:00 pm – 1:05 pm: Welcome

1:05 pm- 1:20 pm: Ookla D2D Presentation

Speaker: Mike Dano

1:20 pm – 1:40 pm: Opening Keynote: “Satellite’s Role in the Future of Mobile Connectivity”

Speaker: Jay Schwarz

1:40 pm – 2:30 pm: The Opportunities and Challenges for Satellite Connectivity

Moderator: Brent Penter

Speakers: Sam Crowther, Max Leiva, Tony Sabatino, & Joe Spytek

A grounded discussion on where satellite connectivity is delivering real value today and where constraints remain. Topics include the role of satellite alongside terrestrial networks, line-of-sight and indoor limitations, capacity considerations, and the economics of serving hard-to-reach areas. The panel will also explore what “integration” actually looks like in practice and where expectations are currently outpacing reality.

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm: Networking Break

3:00 pm – 3:50 pm: Building the Partnership: Spectrum, Standards & Collaboration

Moderator: Matt Klamus

Speakers: Robert Brown & Tarun Gupta

A deep dive into how operator–satellite partnerships are being structured and scaled. Discussion will cover spectrum availability and MSS constraints, the evolution of 3GPP NTN standards, interference coordination and regulatory considerations, and how commercial agreements between operators and satellite providers are taking shape. The panel will also examine the role of the device ecosystem, including chipsets and OEM alignment, in enabling broader adoption.

3:50 pm – 4:00 pm: Closing Remarks

Speaker: Mike Dano