#USA #SoftBank #Sceye #HAPS #Moriarty

Sceye's Groundbreaking Demonstration of Laser Ranging

In a significant advancement for optical communication technology, Sceye, a U.S. aerospace company, has achieved a world première in laser ranging by successfully tracking its High Altitude Platform System (HAPS) from the ground. The demonstration, conducted in collaboration with SoftBank Corp., Hitotsubashi University, and the National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR), marks a pivotal step towards revolutionizing non-terrestrial optical communications.

Understanding the Demonstration

On September 23, 2026, the operation showcased the capabilities of Sceye’s ST1 HAPS during a month-long flight, which embarked from New Mexico and traveled an impressive distance of nearly 30,000 km to Japan and back. The experiment involved using a ground-based laser ranging system that continuously received reflected laser signals from the HAPS, functioning effectively in real-time.

This complex exercise utilized a specially designed corner cube reflector (CCR), developed by NIPR, which was installed on Sceye’s HAPS, while SoftBank constructed the accompanying reflector assembly. Utilizing a compact, portable laser ranging system, the team was able to maintain precise tracking of the HAPS as it moved through varying atmospheric conditions in the stratosphere.

A Leap Towards Optical Communications

According to Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen, Founder and CEO of Sceye, this landmark demonstration underscores the potential of establishing a robust stratospheric infrastructure. He stated, "This achievement shows what becomes possible when we build reliable systems at high altitudes. Our mission not only supported direct-to-device connectivity but also facilitated critical functionalities such as communications with drones and edge computing."

The implications of this technology are vast. There’s a growing interest in optical wireless communications as a next-generation means for high-speed data transfer, particularly for applications like earth observation data transmission, improved connectivity for underserved regions, and rapid restoration of communication post-disasters. Additionally, harnessing laser technology could enhance low-latency intercontinental networks, transforming how data is transmitted globally.

Technical Challenges and Achievements

Tracking a fast-moving platform with precision presents significant technical hurdles. As noted by Johnny Truong, CTO at Sceye, keeping a laser beam centered on a distant moving target, akin to tracking a coin with a laser pointer from ten miles away, is a formidable task due to atmospheric disruptions. The successful execution of this demonstration highlights the technological advancements necessary for creating optical links between the ground, stratosphere, and outer space.

The data collected regarding the attenuation of light as it travels through the atmosphere will inform future developments in optical communication technologies designed for operations on Sceye's HAPS. The findings are expected to be invaluable as the industry moves towards implementing advanced communications systems.

The Vision for Future Connectivity

Founded in 2014, Sceye has consistently aimed to enhance stratospheric infrastructure, enabling universal connectivity while addressing climate monitoring and resource management challenges. As they continue to innovate, Sceye is poised to lead the High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) sector and facilitate future optical communications technologies that will reshape interactions between ground-based, stratospheric, and space systems.

The demonstration concluded a comprehensive 30-day mission where Sceye and SoftBank effectively showcased various applications of HAPS, including successful direct-to-device connectivity using SoftBank's core network. This included facilitating text messaging, video calls, and internet access, pointing toward a future where such technologies can bridge geographical gaps and enhance global communication networks.

In summary, the partnership between Sceye and SoftBank is not just about current achievements but is also setting the stage for transformational changes in how we understand and interact with the world around us through advanced optical technologies.