Sun, Mar 25, 2018
Part Of Horizon 2020 Initiative
Airbus has launched the OPTIMA project, which will deliver a proof of concept demonstrator for the use of photonic payloads in telecommunications satellites.
The OPTIMA project, which is led by Airbus Defense and Space in Stevenage and part of Horizon 2020 funded by the European Commission, comprises specialist partners from across Europe, including: DAS Photonics, CORDON Electronics, SODERN, IMEC and Polatis. Airbus Defense and Space will define, assemble and test a photonic payload demonstrator based on the components and equipment developed by the other members of the consortium.
Photonic payloads have the potential to revolutionise the design, capacity and capability of future generations of telecommunications satellites. The photonic payloads will use light to transfer the signals throughout the spacecraft, replacing current RF technologies, allowing for the development of more efficient and powerful satellites which are able to meet the increasing complexity and sophistication required by customers.
The use of optical fiber based equipment has already transformed Information Technology for ground applications, and its compact, lightweight and low power nature should enable reductions in mass on telecommunication satellites as they replace currently used technology.
said: “By bringing together our industry partners who have complementary skills and expertise, we will develop OPTIMA to provide a roadmap for photonics technology available for telecommunications satellites - and we are targeting an in orbit demonstration as early as 2020," said Javad Anzalchi, Airbus project manager. "Full development of this technology should not only allow the European space industry to address the challenges of the EU’s Digital Agenda for Europe 2020, but also strengthen its position in a very competitive, global marketplace.”
(Source: Airbus news release)
More News
DETRESFA (Distress Phrase) The code word used to designate an emergency phase wherein there is reasonable certainty that an aircraft and its occupants are threatened by grave and i>[...]
"General aviation is at the forefront of developing and introducing innovative technologies that will transform the entire aviation industry..." Source: Kyle Martin, Vice President>[...]
Direct Straight line flight between two navigational aids, fixes, points, or any combination thereof. When used by pilots in describing off-airway routes, points defining direct ro>[...]
Aero Linx: Women in Corporate Aviation Women in Corporate Aviation support individuals seeking career advancement and professional development in the business aviation industry. Me>[...]
“We would like to thank the many volunteers that help throughout the year to pull off the event, as well as the several reviewers, judges, and SURVICE staff that provide team>[...]