Post by TNO

How to industrialise an innovation? Just a few months ago, TNO and Airbus, supported by ESA Connectivity and Secure Communications, demonstrated something remarkable: a high-speed optical data link between an aircraft and a geostationary satellite, reaching 2.6 Gbps. A system the size of a lab-scale demonstrator. Now, we’re taking the next step. TNO is leading a strong European consortium, AirCAT, to transform this breakthrough into a compact, scalable solution ready for industry – bringing secure, high-speed laser satellite communication closer to practical use in civil and defence aviation. This activity is driven by a strong consortium, including Airbus Defence and Space Netherlands, Celestia STS, FSO Instruments, LioniX International, Nederlands Lucht- en Ruimtevaartcentrum, VTEC LASERS & SENSORS LTD., and supported by ESA’s Optical and Quantum Communications – ScyLight programme, within the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) programme. This consortium combines expertise across system design, photonics, flight testing and end-user needs. This project shows how innovation evolves – from large-scale breakthroughs to deployable solutions. Together with our partners, we are strengthening Europe’s position in secure, resilient air-to-space communications networks. Learn more 👉 tno.to/svv Netherlands Space Agency - NLSA #TNOSpace #AirCAT #UltraAir #LaserCommunication #Aviation #Defence #Collaboration