PIONEERING SPACE TECHNOLOGY FOR SMARTER INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Datel AS, an Estonian IT powerhouse with over three decades of expertise, stands out as a leader in geo-informatics, infrastructure solutions, and pioneering space-based technology. Since its establishment in 1990, Datel has consistently driven innovation and development in IT and communication systems, transforming Estonia’s digital landscape and building advanced infra-structure that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving world. Today, Datel’s commitment to excellence and forward-thinking innovation is reshaping sectors ranging from land management to space technology, with a clear emphasis on environmental sustainability and efficient resource management.
Datel’s journey began in the early years of Estonia’s independence when it secured one of the country’s first IT public procurements in 1994.
The project, conducted in partnership with Siemens, focused on developing a comprehensive land information system for the nation. This early success laid the groundwork for Datel’s expertise in managing map data and laid a solid foundation for its future endeavors in geo-informatics. Over the years, Datel has successfully delivered transformative projects such as the Estonian Land Management System, a nationwide Urban Planning System, and a 3D Digital Twin for Estonia’s e-construction platform. These initiatives showcase Datel’s technical capabilities and its commitment to enhancing national infrastructure through advanced technological solutions.
Beyond geo-informatics, Datel has expanded its expertise across three primary areas: software development, information and communication infrastructure solutions, and presentation technologies. A notable achievement includes the completion of a nationwide school network in 2022,establishing Northern Europe’s largest Wi-Fi network with nearly 5,500 base stations. This project underscores Datel’s ability to execute large-scale, complex infra-structure projects that enhance connectivity and digital accessibility across sectors.
In 2017, Datel embarked on a new chapter by venturing into space technology, collaborating closely with the European Space Agency (ESA).
This expansion represents Datel’s ambition to harness satellite technology for practical, real-world applications that solve pressing issues in infrastructure management and sustainability. The company’s flagship space-based service, Sille.Space, has garnered attention for its groundbreaking capabilities. Utilizing satellite data from ESA, Sille.Space provides early warnings for ground and infrastructure shifts, detecting subsidence and ground movement as precise as two millimeters. This innovative tool supplies decision-makers with timely, accurate data, enabling proactive measures to protect infrastructure, prevent costly damages, and ensure public safety.
In recognition of its impact, Sille.Space was awarded the Estonian IT Association’s Private Sector Act of the Year in 2019. This award underscores the value of Datel’s contributions to the IT sector and its ability to address real-world challenges with technological ingenuity.
As Sille.Space continues to evolve, it reflects Datel’s commitment to harnessing satellite technology to benefit local communities and governmental agencies alike.
As Sille.Space continues to evolve, it reflects Datel’s commitment to harnessing satellite technology to benefit local communities and governmental agencies alike.
Datel’s latest development, the “Illegal Construction Detector,” is set to transform the way cities monitor and manage unauthorized construction. This innovative service combines machine learning algorithms and satellite data with building registry information to provide precise, real-time insights into construction activities across Europe. By enabling local governments to detect and deter illegal construction, this solution reduces the administrative burden of on-site inspections and promotes sustainable urban development. According to Datel’s leadership, the Illegal Construction Detector “offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods, making it an invaluable tool for local authorities who want to ensure that urban growth is lawful, safe, and environmentally sound.”
The Illegal Construction Detector not only saves time and resources but also aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals by promoting inclusive, safe, and resilient cities. By discouraging unauthorized construction activities, the system contributes to environmental protection and ensures that urban expansion occurs responsibly. This space-based solution reflects Datel’s belief in technology as a force for positive social change, positioning it as a key partner in building smarter, more sustainable communities.
As satellite data and space technology continue to unlock new possibilities, Datel remains at the forefront of these advancements. Its innovative applications, like Sille.Space and the Illegal Construction Detector, exemplify Datel’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance infrastructure, protect the environment, and empower local governments. “Our work with the European Space Agency has allowed us to take our services to a new level, ”remarks Datel CEO Urmas Kõlli. “With satellite technology, we can provide a level of oversight and precision that was previously unimaginable, helping our clients make better decisions and creating a more sustainable future for all.”
In sum, Datel AS has established itself as a leader in both traditional IT infra-structure and the emerging field of space-based solutions. By integrating advanced satellite technology into its service offerings, Datel not only provides clients with powerful tools for infrastructure management but also drives sustainable practices that benefit society as a whole. As it continues to expand its space-based solutions, Datel’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability will undoubtedly shape the future of IT and infrastructure management in Estonia and beyond.
