A considerable part of the Earth’s surface is not easily accessible via GSM signals; in some places there is a poor internet connection or no internet at all. SpaceX, the company of Elon Musk, wants to launch thousands of satellites into the sky to ensure that the entire planet has fast internet. The Dutch company Hiber uses rockets from SpaceX to launch its own satellites into space, making the world more accessible.
Here is an interview with co-founder Coen Janssen.
What kind of company is Hiber?
Hiber makes it possible to use nano-satellites to collect data from sensors worldwide. This data provides important new insights for our clients. Think, for example, of higher crop yields, through the use of soil, light and rain sensors. Based on the data collected by these sensors, farmers know when to water their fields and when it is best for them to fertilize. This allows them to achieve higher yields.
How did you come up with the idea to set up this company?
We took over a year to explore the space market and made some modest investments. In that period we saw that small satellites bring all kinds of new business opportunities.
Is there much competition in this area?
Because we operate worldwide, a handful of companies are also active in this field, such as in Australia and the United States. We work together with India and America to make our service possible.
What are the biggest obstacles you face?
Offering a simple and user-friendly solution for the customer is another major challenge. That’s why we work together with our customers so that our technology can be used in different ways.
What are you proud of?
In 2018, we successfully launched our first two satellites. In addition, we receive financial support from the Dutch government and the associated recognition as a national icon makes us very proud.
What are your plans for this year?
We want it to be possible for our customers to receive data several times a day, instead of just once a day as it is now.
What is your goal for the next five years?
With Hiber, we want to be the most widely used connectivity solution for Internet of Things and thus set a standard with Hiberband, including with WiFi and bluetooth technology.
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