07/02/2025
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Optical technology could change how we position, navigate, and time our systems. The European Space Agency (ESA) has teamed up with various European companies to explore this potential. They are starting with a study (Phase A/B1) that may lead to an in-orbit demo for a new technology called optical time synchronization and ranging (OpSTAR) in November 2025.
This demo aims to test intersatellite optical links, which could be vital for future satellite navigation systems.
Europe is at the forefront of satellite navigation. The European Space Agency (ESA) is working hard to develop and validate new technologies to keep that leadership. One key initiative, called FutureNAV, focuses on in-orbit tests to enhance positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies. This effort helps Europe remain competitive in this essential area.
Optical technology is particularly promising for its accuracy in navigation. It uses laser beams for data transmission instead of radio signals, which is already common in satellite communications. However, making it usable for navigation will require further advancements and in-space testing.
ESA is eager to advance optical technology for time synchronization and ranging. They have contracted a consortium led by the German company OHB System to carry out this initial study. This group includes 33 companies from ESA member states.
Following the study, the next step will involve in-orbit testing to validate new system concepts. This testing will help gauge how ready optical technology is and guide decisions on its use in future systems.
Javier Benedicto, ESA’s Director of Navigation, expressed excitement about the project, highlighting its significance for upcoming discussions at the ESA Council.
José Ángel Ávila Rodríguez, from ESA Navigation, noted that OpSTAR will also help establish an international standard for optical timing in PNT, enhancing the global role of European industry in this sector.
Why Optical Technology for Navigation
With the growing demand for precise navigation, there’s a need for systems that are dependable and accurate. Optical technology, especially intersatellite optical links, can help create a nearly autonomous global navigation satellite system (GNSS).
Using laser beams can enhance system resilience, decreasing reliance on traditional space atomic clocks and ground infrastructure. Plus, optical systems are naturally resistant to jamming and spoofing.
These optical links can transmit a lot of data quickly, potentially leading to more robust navigation systems as per ESA’s LEO-PNT program. They can improve accuracy to millimetre levels and timing to picoseconds, benefitting billions of users worldwide.
About ESA Navigation
ESA Navigation is responsible for the design and development of top-notch European satellite navigation programs like Galileo and EGNOS. Their future initiatives, including NAVISP, FutureNAV, and Moonlight, focus on innovation and real-world tests to pave the way for the next generation of satellite navigation.
