FSO-Instruments makes laser communication equipment for use in satellites and (mobile) ground stations. Laser Satellite Communication is a better alternative to RF (radio frequency) communications in space. Laser communication is faster, more secure and allows for low latency communication networks.
The technology has been proven in space and is now making the transition to larger scale applications that include:
- Fast internet supporting Wi-Fi coverage in airplanes and ships
- 5G backhaul networks
- Real time networking, also for high bandwidth applications
The opportunity for industrializing Laser Satellite Communication is now. Public and private applications requiring laser satellite communication are being developed and there is a demand for solutions that not only work but can also be scaled up in commercially attractive ways. This drives the need for industrialization and higher volume manufacturing of components and assemblies for laser satellite communication.
FSO industrializes cutting-edge Free Space Optics (FSO) technology, transforming advanced technology into market-ready products. Our modular, customizable laser communication terminals solutions connect everything and everyone with internet access, using lasers instead of traditional radio waves. This technology enables ultra-fast, reliable connections for a variety of applications—from 4K streaming on planes to seamless online conference calls on cruise ships. We are dedicated to making laser satellite communication widely available, focusing on high-performance optical heads that are cost-effective and meet industry standards. In addition to laser satellite communication, FSO products can also serve airborne and ground applications.
To support rapid scalability, we focus on manufacturing small numbers of high complex products, building a robust supply chain to meet demand and deliver the highest quality to our customers. As pioneers in the field of global communication, FSO Instruments is revitalizing the industrial manufacturing capacity in in the Netherlands and creates opportunities for further technologic developments in the Dutch space-tech industry.
The company was founded in 2023 and combines the strength of its shareholders Demcon and VDL to industrialize laser communication technology developed by TNO, a large government laboratory. In 2024, an In Orbit Demonstrator showed that it could reliably make connections to a range of ground stations, thus securing space flight heritage for the world’s fastest 1U laser terminal.