ÉireComposites, mBryonics to develop advanced optics solutions for space
The FreeForm-OPTIX project will produce affordable, high-specification, low-mass, composite freeform mirrors to increase communication speed and security from orbit.
A satellite, floating in space. Photo Credit, all images: ÉireComposites
ÉireComposites (Galway, Ireland) along with mBryonics (Galway), University of Galway (Ireland) and Irish Manufacturing Research (Dublin) has successfully secured €4.1 million in funding for the Freeform-OPTIX project. The work will be supported under the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) Call 5, which is led by the government of Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, and aims to disrupt markets for optical intersatellite and earth-to-orbit communications.
Advanced optics solutions are used for satellite communications and are backed up with photonics for high data processing rates. Freeform optics enable better optical performance, higher degrees of miniaturization and lower complexity optical systems. While this market is growing quickly, there are currently barriers to volume manufacturing. The Freeform-OPTIX project is striving to solve this.
This cylinder, with a caul plate fitted around the uncured carbon fiber, is an advanced optics part ÉireComposites trialed the manufacturing of on site ahead of the project’s funding.
“We needed a specialized manufacturer with deep R&D expertise that understood the quality and rigorous testing associated with advanced optical technology systems,” David Mackey, CTO of mByronics says. “There is simply no margin for error when it comes to freeform optics. Working with ÉireComposites over the past few years, it’s clear they share our passion for this technology, and we’re excited to partner with them as we build the next generation of communication technology deployed in space.”
The project is led by mBryonics, a company with vast experience in specialty optical technology for space applications, including photonics, freeform optics and composite materials. ÉireComposites will support mBryonics by providing large-scale carbon fiber manufacturing capabilities for the development of a pilot line for manufacturing composite mirrors for optical instruments, targeting applications in space communications. The University of Galway and Irish Manufacturing Research will conduct supporting research in relevant areas to ensure the project is a success.
The project partners hope to bring innovation and precision manufacturing of freeform optics to in-factory demonstration maturity, refining communication, and dramatically boosting the space industry in Ireland. Ultimately, the Freeform-OPTIX, project will produce high-specification, low-mass, freeform mirrors for new and emerging markets, and deliver enhanced performance to customers at more affordable prices.
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