This initiative is a precursor to a proposed in-orbit demonstrator, known as Optical Time Synchronisation and Ranging (OpSTAR), which will be presented at the ESA Council at Ministerial Level in November 2025. The project aims to validate intersatellite optical links, a crucial step before potential implementation in operational satellite navigation networks.
Europe remains at the forefront of satellite navigation, and ESA continues to explore and refine new technologies through its FutureNAV program. This initiative fosters innovation in space-based PNT solutions, reinforcing European leadership in this pivotal sector. Central to FutureNAV is the in-orbit demonstrator element, which functions as a continuous incubator for emerging navigation technologies.
Optical technology presents an opportunity to enhance navigation systems with unprecedented precision and resilience. Optical links, which employ laser beams rather than conventional radio signals, are already widely utilized in satellite communications. However, their application in navigation necessitates further technological refinements and comprehensive in-orbit validation.
To address these challenges, ESA has commissioned a European consortium led by OHB System of Germany to conduct a Phase A/B1 concept definition study and related technological predevelopments. This broad initiative involves 33 companies from various ESA Member States.
Following this study, the next phase will focus on in-orbit testing to validate system concepts and assess new architectures. The findings will be instrumental in determining the feasibility of integrating optical technology into future operational navigation systems.
Javier Benedicto, ESA Director of Navigation, remarked: "We are thrilled to kick off this project now, as we gear up to the ESA Council at Ministerial Level in November, a crucial milestone in demonstrating the benefits of new technologies and shaping the future of navigation in Europe."
Jose Angel Avila Rodriguez, Head of Future Programmes at ESA Navigation, added: "In addition to laying the foundation for a future in-orbit demonstration, OpSTAR will contribute to define an international interoperability standard for optical timing and ranging in PNT. By involving the main industry players at this early stage, we empower European industry to keep leading global PNT and benefit from potential implementation in future operational systems that use this technology."
By employing laser beams, these links could reduce dependence on space atomic clocks and ground-based infrastructure, enhancing system resilience. Additionally, optical links are naturally resistant to jamming and spoofing, offering an added layer of security.
With superior data transfer rates, intersatellite optical links support new, resilient navigation architectures aligned with ESA's vision under the LEO-PNT program. This approach aims to establish a multi-layered navigation system to improve global positioning services.
Furthermore, the exceptional precision of optical systems is expected to enhance navigation performance significantly. Achieving millimetre-level spatial accuracy and picosecond-level timing precision, these advancements promise to deliver enhanced services benefiting billions of users worldwide.
Related Links
Satellite navigation at ESA
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