#USA #Silicon Valley #OSCP #MK2Z-3 #photonic IMU

OSCP Unveils the MK2Z-3 Photonic Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)

At the Silicon Valley Space Week, OSCPS Motion Sensing Inc., known as OSCP, presented an exciting advancement in motion sensing technology— the MK2Z-3 photonic inertial measurement unit. This groundbreaking device allows for the integration of photonic gyroscopes across one, two, or even all three axes within a compact enclosure weighing less than one kilogram. The MK2Z-3 is not just a leap in technology; it represents a shift in how navigational challenges are addressed in space missions and other applications where reliable, lightweight sensors are required.

A New Era of Navigation

The MK2Z-3 builds upon the previous MK2Z model, which featured a photonic gyroscope solely on the Z axis. The new IMU takes this innovation further by offering versatile options that cater to different mission requirements. In doing so, it removes the necessity for integrators to redesign their systems around the sensor, thereby saving time and reducing complexity. The lightweight design—less than one liter in volume—ensures that even smaller missions can feasibly incorporate this high-performance unit into their payloads.

Performance Goals and Target Applications

OSCP aims for a gyro bias stability of 0.01 degrees per hour or superior, positioning the MK2Z-3 within the navigation-grade performance range previously reserved for heavier systems that consume more power. As Kazem Zandi, the founder and CEO of OSCP, articulated, this device addresses critical gyroscopic requirements, allowing spacecraft and landers to maintain accurate attitude tracking in environments devoid of external reference points.

Potential applications for the MK2Z-3 are vast and varied. It can be utilized in small satellites, launch vehicles, landers, and planetary rovers, as well as in longer-range Earth platforms that require navigation without access to satellite positioning. This untethering from traditional navigation systems opens the door to new possibilities in satellite and vehicle design.

Addressing Customer Demands

In response to feedback from customers using the existing MK2Z model, OSCP innovated to provide the same high performance across two additional axes. Thibaut Gravey, OSCP’s vice-president of product development, mentioned, "The MK2Z-3 is our answer to those requests, maintaining familiar interfaces such as RS-422 or CAN-FD to facilitate easy transitions for customers upgrading to a three-axis configuration." This approach ensures seamless integration into existing systems without requiring extensive redesign or retraining.

The MK2 Family and Future Outlook

The MK2Z-3 enhances OSCP's growing MK2 product family, which includes the MK2M2 MEMS IMU and the MK2E2 with a photonic gyroscope on the Z axis. Scheduled for sample availability in 2027, the new model is expected to attract attention from industries and sectors demanding high-precision motion sensing technologies. The product's design in Montréal ensures that it is ITAR-free, making it accessible to a diverse customer base.

For More Information
Those attending Silicon Valley Space Week can visit OSCP at Stand 6 to see the MK2Z-3 in action and learn more about its specifications, capabilities, and applications. Further details can be found online at oscp.com.

About OSCP

Founded in 2015, OSCPS Motion Sensing Inc. specializes in the design and manufacturing of photonic gyroscopes and inertial measurement units. The company stands out for delivering tactical-grade accuracy tailored for environments where traditional GNSS is ineffective or unavailable. With clients spanning space, defense, maritime, and robotics sectors, OSCP is committed to advancing motion sensing solutions that meet modern navigation needs.

This post was originally published on October 27, 2026. All specifications are design targets and may undergo changes during development.