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Sony Space Communications Corporation (SSCC) and Astro Digital US, Inc. (Astro Digital) have entered into an agreement to design, build, and launch two micro-satellites equipped with SSCC's optical terminals. These satellites will demonstrate SSCC's advanced optical communication capabilities through high-speed Lasercom links between the satellites and with ground-based terminals. The launch is by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 13, 2024
Sony Space Communications Corporation (SSCC) and Astro Digital US, Inc. (Astro Digital) have entered into an agreement to design, build, and launch two micro-satellites equipped with SSCC's optical terminals. These satellites will demonstrate SSCC's advanced optical communication capabilities through high-speed Lasercom links between the satellites and with ground-based terminals. The launch is planned for 2026.
The origins of Sony's optical communication efforts trace back to the Small Optical Link for the International Space Station (SOLISS) mission, a collaborative project between Sony and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The SOLISS mission was first operated successfully in orbit in March 2020, laying the groundwork for the formation of SSCC.
"We are thrilled to be partnering with Astro Digital on this important project," said Kyohei Iwamoto, President of SSCC. "As space exploration and travel continue to expand, the need for efficient and reliable communication becomes paramount. We firmly believe that lasers, with their compact size, increased speed, ability to transmit large amounts of data, and inherent high security (relative to radio frequency systems), will become the industry standard for communication in space. This collaboration with Astro Digital further solidifies SSCC's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space communication."
Chris Biddy, CEO of Astro Digital, expressed enthusiasm for the venture: "Sony's technology is poised to make a significant impact on the commercial space industry. Astro Digital is looking forward to leveraging the flight-proven Corvus satellite bus platform to host and demonstrate operation of Sony's highly-capable Lasercom terminal on-orbit."
The Lasercom terminals developed by SSCC feature cutting-edge innovation, integrating Sony's Blu-ray technology to achieve precise laser alignment. These terminals are tailored for small satellite applications, balancing cost-effectiveness with robust performance and reliability.
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