AAC Clyde Space has accomplished a noteworthy milestone with the recently signed licensing agreement: the right to utilize TNO’s state-of-the-art optical technology for the production and distribution of laser satellite communication terminals. This cutting-edge technology makes it possible to send data generated by satellites to Earth using laser beams, offering broadband access that is significantly faster and more secure than traditional radio-frequency communication techniques.
The development of a worldwide supply chain for laser satellite communication terminals is also made possible by the fact that FSO Instruments is the supplier of the terminal’s core optical component, which was also made possible by TNO’s innovations.
The arrangement gives AAC Clyde Space, a space technology business, twenty years to use TNO’s laser communication terminal technology. These 10 x 10 x 10 cm terminals are perfect for small spacecraft, which is AAC Clyde Space’s area of expertise. Their goal is to create a laser communication terminal for small satellites that can be mass-produced and made commercially viable.
The additional optical technology that Clyde Space need to completely build the terminal will be supplied by FSO Instruments. In order to capitalize on TNO’s technology and experience in optical heads, optical benches, and a coarse pointing alignment system, this Dutch optical instrumentation business recently signed into a similar license deal. TNO creates a supply by cross-licensing its optical technologies.
The need for better downlink capacity in compact form factors has been brought to light by developments in high data volume payloads, such as Earth observation payloads for CubeSats and SmallSats. Consequently, there is a growing need for laser satellite communication applications worldwide. We are well-positioned to take advantage of this demand and enhance the Dutch brand’s standing as a leader in cutting-edge New Space solutions globally thanks to this relationship.
CEO of AAC Clyde Space – Luis Gomes.
The development of optical satellite communication capabilities in the Netherlands and the reinforcement of a strong network between Europe and NATO are both facilitated by this new collaboration, which highlights TNO’s commitment to expediting the transfer of our technology. Kees Buijsrogge – TNO Space Director.
