ESA has signed a contract with a consortium of European companies to conduct a study on optical technology for positioning, navigation, and timing. This study, known as OpSTAR, aims to develop an in-orbit demonstrator for optical time synchronization and ranging with the potential to revolutionize satellite navigation systems. The technology uses laser beams for data transmission, offering increased accuracy and robustness compared to traditional radio signals. The consortium will conduct a Phase A/B1 study to lay the foundation for future in-orbit testing of the technology. ESA Director of Navigation, Javier Benedicto, expressed excitement for the project, highlighting its potential to shape the future of navigation in Europe.
Optical technology for navigation offers enhanced resilience, accuracy, and immunity to jamming and spoofing, making it a promising solution for the growing demand for positioning, navigation, and timing services. By leveraging optical links, a global navigation satellite system with almost fully autonomous capabilities can be developed, ultimately benefiting billions of users worldwide. The technology has the potential to improve spatial accuracy to the millimeter level and timing to the picosecond level, supporting a multi-layer system approach to navigation.
ESA Navigation is at the forefront of developing innovative technologies for satellite navigation through programs like FutureNAV and NAVISP. The OpSTAR project is part of ESA’s efforts to explore and validate novel technologies, ensuring European leadership in the field of satellite navigation. The results of the study will provide essential inputs for decision-makers in incorporating optical technology into future operational systems, ultimately shaping the future of navigation in Europe and beyond.
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