Segment Insights: Photonics

Tip/Tilt Platform S-331.2SL: From the Lab into Space

October 5, 2023

A Chinese company specializing in manufacturing low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite equipment has formally verified that our standard PI high-speed tip/tilt platform S-331.2SL can be launched into space. This is essential for the significant target application of free space optical communications (FSOC) in low Earth orbit (LEO).

PI high-speed tip/tilt platform S-331.2SL

Hence, our standard product meets all the necessary requirements for shock, vibration, temperature, and vacuum, enabling successful use in laser-based communication within Earth’s orbit. For use in space, no further modifications are required. This is excellent news for PI, as it saves time and costs. The S-331.2SL passed both lab-based and real space tests with very good results.

Our customer initially ordered 300 pieces and is now requesting an additional batch of 200 pieces, thanks to the excellent communication skills of Tyler Wang, Engineer Field Sales - North China, Benedikt Brenneis, Deputy to Head of TSE - APAC, and Aaron Marx, Engineer Technical Sales APAC.

Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communication System

For PI, the verification of the space launch capability of the S-331.2SL had a positive impact in many respects. On the one hand, Christian Haberstroh, Professional Technical Product Management, is impressed and appreciates the space launch capability of his standard product. On the other hand, the strategic marketers, Dr. Thomas Bocher and Scott Jordan, are pleased to announce the increased competitiveness of our standard products and solutions in supporting important future target applications for satellite communications in space. This achievement is expected to significantly increase our photonics-based revenues in China and other parts of the world.

In case of inquiries or comments, please contact the individuals listed below. Additional details on the technology of free space optical communication can be found on this PI landing page.

Contact persons:

  • Aaron Marx, Engineer Technical Sales APAC
  • Dr. Thomas Bocher, Director Strategic Marketing - Global
Written by Laura Früh on October 5, 2023