Photo: Open Cosmos

Open Cosmos is working on a project with Japanese company Panasonic Operational Excellence Co. to advance optical inter-satellite communications. 

The companies will focus on faster and more autonomous ways for satellites to connect in orbit, bringing together Open Cosmos’ expertise in satellite constellations and Panasonic’s expertise in high-frequency telecommunications.

During the six-month project, Panasonic will lead antenna design and analysis while Open Cosmos will test and assess integration into future missions. The two companies are also exploring the potential for a future production line in Japan, with Open Cosmos providing satellite design and mission integration from the U.K.

U.K. startup Open Cosmos provided more detail on the project on Oct. 28 after it received funding from the UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund (IBF) last month. UKSA funded 23 projects focused on international collaboration, and Quiver received 147,000 pounds ($195,000). 

“Quiver represents the next phase of true international collaboration in space. With support from the UK Space Agency through IBF, we’re working with Panasonic to develop technologies that make satellite constellations faster, smarter and more autonomous,” commented Rafel Jorda Siquier, Open Cosmos founder and CEO.