The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a contract with a consortium of European companies to conduct a study and predevelopment of optical technology for positioning, navigation, and timing. This technology, known as OpSTAR, aims to validate intersatellite optical links for future use in operational satellite navigation systems. ESA is leading the way in exploring novel technologies through programs like FutureNAV, with optical technology offering unprecedented accuracy and robustness in navigation.
The contract, led by German OHB System, involves 33 companies from across ESA Member states. After the study, the next step will be in-orbit testing to validate new system concepts and architectures. This project will also contribute to defining an international interoperability standard for optical timing and ranging in positioning, navigation, and timing systems.
Optical technology has the potential to provide almost fully autonomous global navigation satellite systems due to its resilience, accuracy, and immunity to jamming and spoofing. It can improve current navigation systems by reaching millimeter-level spatial accuracy and picosecond-level timing, benefiting billions of users worldwide. The results of this project will be crucial for decision-makers looking to incorporate optical technology into future operational systems.
ESA Navigation is at the forefront of shaping the future of satellite navigation through programs like Galileo, EGNOS, NAVISP, and FutureNAV. The OpSTAR project is a significant step towards demonstrating the benefits of new technologies and ensuring European leadership in the field of positioning, navigation, and timing.
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