Sweden's AAC Clyde Space has acquired the rights to manufacture and distribute laser satellite communication terminals using TNO's advanced optical technology. This important milestone was achieved through a recently signed license agreement. The technology allows satellite data to be transmitted to Earth by laser beam, which dramatically increases the speed and security of broadband connections compared to traditional radio frequencies. In addition, FSO Instruments will provide the core optical components for the terminals derived from TNO's technology, paving the way for the Dutch company into the international supply chain for laser satellite communication terminals.
The Netherlands will soon have a laser satellite communications ecosystem
Dutch space optics company FSO Instruments will commercialise TNO's laser satellite communications technology.
Kees Buijsrogge, director of TNO Space, said: “This new partnership underlines TNO's commitment to accelerating technology transfer and fostering the growth of satellite optical communications capabilities in the Netherlands, strengthening robust networks within Europe and NATO.”
Commercially Viable Devices
The agreement gives space technology company AAC Clyde Space the rights to use TNO's laser communications terminal technology for 20 years. The terminal, which measures 10 x 10 x 10 cm, is ideal for the small satellites that AAC Clyde Space specialises in. The company aims to develop a commercially viable laser terminal for small satellites that can be mass-produced.
First Dutch supply chain
To fully develop the terminal, AAC Clyde Space needs additional optical technology, which FSO Instruments will provide. The Dutch optics company recently signed a similar license agreement with TNO for optical heads, optical benches and coarse point adjustment systems. The multiple licenses for TNO's optical technology establish an international supply chain for manufacturing the first Dutch laser communications terminal for small satellites.
Laser satellite communications works by forming and transmitting laser beams over long distances. It connects ground stations, satellites, aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. By transmitting in the infrared wavelength range, laser communications can achieve data rates 100 to 1,000 times faster than the radio frequencies currently used for communication. Additionally, laser communications links are more secure because they use very narrow laser beams of light instead of wide radio signals.
