Satellite manufacturer and mission provider Open Cosmos and laser-based, in-orbit-power provider Photonicity have announced the signing of an agreement to work towards the in-orbit-demonstration of a power-receiving optical system in low-Earth orbit.
This world-first project will aim to power spacecrafts from Earth using advanced laser, power receiver, and tracking systems to dramatically increase the performance of satellites while decreasing their weight.
This agreement is a continuation of the Call To Orbit programme, an initiative run by Open Cosmos in partnership with the European Space Agency, designed to decrease the barriers to accessing space by providing free-to-use satellite emulation software and hardware to companies looking to develop innovative payload technologies.
The U.K. mission to Singapore, organised by the British High Commission Singapore with the support of the UK Space Agency, took place between the 3rd and 10th of February and was instrumental in the signature of this agreement.
Representing Open Cosmos during the mission, VP of Market Development, Tristan Laurent, said the agreement “confirms our assumption that making space technology affordable and easy to use would enable game-changing space applications to emerge”.
Charles Ho, Photonicity Founder, said: “This in-orbit-demonstration will be a monumental step towards our vision for space exploration. Laser-based power beaming for space applications has been postulated for more than three decades. We now look forward to working with Open Cosmos, The Australian National University and the European Space Agency to make this become a reality.”
Hanbin Zheng, Head of S&I Singapore for the British High Commission, said: “I am pleased the support provided by the UK Science and Innovation Network team in Singapore helped facilitate discussions between Open Cosmos and Photonicity. This new partnership to develop next generation power transmission technology for satellites via advanced laser systems is an exciting new frontier, and is testament to the collaborative relationship between the UK and Singapore.”
Frank Salzgeber, ESA’s Head of Innovation and Ventures Office, said: “The impact of space is everywhere – in our daily lives and as the backbone of our digital economy. It is fantastic to see the innovations our alumnus Open Cosmos is working on.”