OSCP Unveils Revolutionary MK2Z-3 Inertial Measurement Unit at Silicon Valley Space Week

The Future of Inertial Sensing: OSCP's MK2Z-3

During the recent Silicon Valley Space Week, OSCPS Motion Sensing Inc., commonly known as OSCP, unveiled its cutting-edge MK2Z-3 photonic inertial measurement unit (IMU). This breakthrough device features advanced photonic gyroscopes and is set to redefine the standards of precision in aerospace applications.

A Leap in Technology

The MK2Z-3 is built upon its predecessor, the MK2Z, enhancing it with the innovative capability to integrate gyroscopes along one, two, or even three axes within a compact unit that weighs less than one kilogram. OSCP aims for a design goal of achieving a stability bias of 0.01 degrees per hour or better. Traditionally, achieving such performance levels required larger and more energy-intensive solutions, but the MK2Z-3 promises to change that narrative.

Kazem Zandi, the founder and CEO of OSCP, explained, "Spacecraft or landers must monitor their own orientation without external reference points. This is where gyroscopes come into play. The MK2Z-3 expands our original design from a single-axis gyroscope to a tri-axis solution, making it suitable for smaller missions."

Diverse Applications

The targeted applications for the MK2Z-3 are numerous and varied, ranging from small satellites and launch vehicles to landers and planetary rovers. It also caters to long-range terrestrial platforms that must navigate without relying on satellite positioning. This versatility is essential for modern aerospace missions, which often demand compact and efficient solutions.

Thibaut Gravey, Vice President of Product at OSCP, noted, "Our clients constantly questioned whether we could deliver similar performance across additional axes. The MK2Z-3 is our answer. It retains the existing interfaces used by our clients, such as RS-422 or CAN-FD, ensuring that transitioning from a single-axis system to a more integrated solution requires no new integration efforts."

Joining the MK2 Family

The MK2Z-3 is part of OSCP’s increasingly popular MK2 family of inertial systems. This lineup includes the MK2M2 MEMS IMU and the MK2E2, which features a photonic gyroscope specifically aligned to the Z-axis. The MK2Z-3 is designed to fulfill specific market needs, with a projected sample release scheduled for 2027. It reflects OSCP's commitment to continuous innovation and development, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of the industry.

Designing for the Future

Designed in Montreal, the MK2Z-3 is not subject to ITAR regulations, making it a favorable option for clients in various sectors, including defense and robotics. OSCP is known for manufacturing its products locally in Canada, ensuring quality and compliance without the complexities associated with ITAR.

At Silicon Valley Space Week, OSCP is positioned at Booth 6, where attendees can learn more about the MK2Z-3's capabilities and future applications. For further information on OSCP’s offerings, visit oscp.com.

About OSCP

Founded in 2015, OSCPS Motion Sensing Inc. focuses on designing and manufacturing photonic gyroscopes and inertial measurement units. The company provides tactical-level precision sensors while maintaining the size, weight, and energy characteristics comparable to MEMS sensors. OSCP’s innovations serve a diverse client base across aerospace, defense, marine, and terrestrial domains, establishing it as a leader in the motion sensing sector.