Space agency project 'brings satellite VoIP closer'

The prospect of carrying voice over internet protocol (VoIP) over satellite networks has reportedly moved a step closer thanks to the results of a joint collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and World Telecom Labs (WTL), a Belgian manufacturer of VoIP hardware.

Under the project, WTL's network optimisation protocol (NOP), which is currently used to lower bandwidth allocations for VoIP over terrestrial telephone networks, was adapted to carry it over low-cost satellite systems such as VSAT, Developing Telecoms reports.

As a result, VoIP was carried over satellite with high voice quality and low bandwidth use. This could be crucial for telecoms operators looking to use low-cost satellite carriers and for VoIP markets in the developing world.

WTL business development director Simon Pearson said: "We have systems installed in countries like Congo, Ivory Coast, Mali and Pakistan where high voice quality at low bandwith-cost is critical."

The scheme was carried out as part of the ESA's Artes Four programme and was jointly funded by both the space agency and WTL. It is the first VoIP-related project undertaken by the ESA.