SCOTSS

Objectives of the service

The objective of the project is to develop a satellite-supported 5G-enabled educational platform that provides students who lack access to general educational services with an advanced school experience. By integrating Earth observation, satellite navigation, and space education, it serves to augment awareness of environmental issues. By utilizing AI and VR/AR technologies, the platform guarantees accessibility and personalized learning pathways for students who are handicapped or live in remote locations. Additionally, it enables the practical application of actual satellite signals and services, promoting early engagement with space technology. Through investigation, conceptualization, construction, incorporation, and validation, the project attempts to offer an extensive solution that tackles the obstacles regarding student social integration, connectivity, and improved pedagogical methodologies. In addition, business, pricing, and cost considerations linked to commercialization will be investigated.

Users and their needs

The SCOTSS project addresses the educational gap in underserved and remote regions by providing students with access to high-quality STEAM education. Users are seeking solutions to improve accessibility, foster engagement through innovative tools like VR/AR, and enhance learning outcomes. The platform also caters to students with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and personalized education.

Service/ system concept

The SCOTSS platform integrates 5G and space technologies to deliver immersive, interactive learning experiences. Key services include real-time access to Earth observation data, augmented and virtual reality applications for STEM education, and satellite communications for areas with limited ICT infrastructure. The system architecture combines LEO and GEO satellite backhaul capabilities with a real 4G/5G network to ensure seamless delivery of educational content.

Eight (8) schools in total, part of which are a School in the remote Greek island of Samos, two Italian Schools and Ellinogermaniki Agogi Private School in Athens, are connected via fast internet to the Distars 2 Educational Platform. Samos school lagging in terrestrial infrastructure is using a private 4G/5G Cellular Satellite backhaul on two different satellite orbital positions (LEO/GEO) to connect the AR/VR and student computers to the Distars 2 platform.

Space Added Value

The use of satellite communications ensures connectivity in remote or underserved regions, enabling access to educational resources regardless of geographical barriers. Earth observation data enhances environmental education, while the integration of satellite imagery and real-time monitoring adds a unique, space-based dimension to traditional learning methods.

Current Status

The SCOTSS project has completed all Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), successfully verifying system components against the defined requirements, excluding pilot site operations. Key achievements include validating the augmented reality tools and 5G-satellite integration through a series of live demonstrations conducted at two partner facilities. These tests involved 15 engineers and educators, providing critical feedback to finalize the system's configuration.

Work is currently focused on pilot site preparation, with satellite ground stations installed in Samos and Athens. These facilities have undergone preliminary testing for connectivity and environmental resilience. The content development team is refining educational modules for Earth observation and STEM topics, incorporating real-time satellite data.

Upcoming activities include System Acceptance Testing (SAT) to validate the full system, including pilot sites, under operational conditions. Additionally, workshops are planned with educators in Greece and Italy to familiarize them with the platform and collect feedback for iterative improvements.