NEC Taps U.S. Startup Apex for 2027 Laser Communication Tech Demo
Japan's NEC Corporation will demonstrate a new laser communication terminal in orbit by 2027. The technology is being developed for the government's Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). For this crucial tech demonstration, NEC has selected a satellite bus from U.S. startup Apex. The mission will utilize Apex's Aries platform, which will be launched into a sun-synchronous orbit. This effort aims to validate the high-speed optical data link technology for future QZSS satellites, showcasing a trend of government agencies leveraging commercial platforms to accelerate development.
Official Source: https://aviationweek.com/space/satellites/japans-nec-use-apex-bus-2027-laserlink-tech-demo
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