The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) has signed a multi-million dollar agreement with Sidus Space to deploy and test TNO's laser communications technology aboard a Sidus' LizzieSatTM satellite. Sidus Space is a Space-as-a-Service company that specialises in commercial satellite design, manufacture, launch, and space-based data collection. It also manufactures space and defence mission critical hardware.
As part of the $2.5 Million agreement, TNO will design and deliver HemiCAT, a high-efficiency miniature communications laser terminal, which Sidus will integrate into its hybrid 3D printed satellite, LizzieSat™. Sidus will manage all aspects of integration, deployment, and operations, including procuring a launch and operating HemiCAT in orbit. The in-orbit demonstration mission for laser satellite communication is part of a study of Dutch defense technology.
“We are honored to be selected by TNO as its mission partner for the HemiCAT technology.” said Carol Craig, Sidus Space Founder and CEO. “This partnership will allow us to demonstrate further versatility of our LizzieSat™ platform and advance our mission of ‘Bringing Space Down to Earth’ while continuing to expand our reach into the international satellite market.”
“This HemiCat is an important new technology and we look forward to working with Sidus to launch and test HemiCAT as a pathfinder for future laser satellite communication systems,” Michiel Ringers, TNO Business Development Manager stated. “The Sidus team offered the best turnkey solution, designing, building, and deploying flight heritage hardware for demanding applications — the perfect combination of expertise and capabilities we look for in a partner.”
Click here to know more about LizzieSAT by Sidus Space.
