The company said data was securely and rapidly transferred between TERRA-M and a satellite in low Earth orbit during a multi-day field trial in the Mediterranean region earlier this month. The trials used the U.S. Space Development Agency laser communication standard and were repeated across multiple satellite passes to demonstrate reliability.
TERRA-M is much smaller than traditional optical ground stations, with an optical head measuring 1.1 meters tall and 0.7 meters in diameter. The system does not require an external dome, can be transported by light vehicle or aircraft, and can be deployed on a building roof.
Archangel Lightworks said TERRA-M units and ground-station-as-a-service contracts are already being purchased by and delivered to customers. The company said the system is designed for rapid deployment at the point of need, including locations far from existing communications infrastructure.
“The TERRA-M is uniquely capable of rapid, secure data transfer with satellites while also being small enough to be deployed and redeployed at the point of need,” said Richard Johanson, CEO of Archangel Lightworks.
“We are on a pathway to providing resilient, large-scale deployable networks of optical ground stations,” added Johanson, “the demand for space-based information and connectivity solutions continues to grow exponentially, and we are pleased that our technology will play a role in this exciting new global communications infrastructure.”
Space Minister Liz Lloyd said: “Archangel Lightworks is a prime example of British innovation leading the world in next-generation space technology. The successful trials of the TERRA-M show the UK is at the forefront of laser communications, developing the kind of cutting-edge products that will underpin the future of global connectivity.”
“Investing in homegrown capability like this strengthens our national security, drives economic growth, and brings opportunities to communities that need them most,” added Lloyd, “the UK Government is proud to have supported Archangel Lightworks, and this is a clear demonstration of what our space sector can deliver.”
TERRA-M’s modular design was developed to support broad interoperability with a wide range of laser communication standards and terminals. Unlike existing optical ground stations, the system does not need a dedicated building or a fixed protective dome.
Laser communications to and from satellites are seen as a key part of next-generation space infrastructure. The technology supports rising satellite traffic and provides a high-volume, secure alternative to radio-based data transmission.
Archangel Lightworks said satellite internet backhaul and Earth observation data transfer are among the main applications of laser communications. The technology also supports space exploration missions, including Artemis.
The company said the technology has both commercial and defense applications and can bypass vulnerabilities associated with terrestrial and subsea cables. It also has the potential to bring high-volume satellite communications to communities and help reduce the digital divide.
Archangel Lightworks said optical ground infrastructure will become increasingly important as computing moves into orbit through orbital data centers. The company said such infrastructure can support seamless connectivity between networks in space and networks on the ground.
Archangel Lightworks’ investors include Santander Alternative Investments, National Security Strategic Investment Fund, Blackfinch Ventures, Oxford Capital, Lycka Limited and Oxford Science Enterprises. The company said it raised $13.5 million, or £10 million, in an oversubscribed Series A funding round last month, bringing total funding to date to $20 million.
The company is also supported by the UK Space Agency, the UK’s Department of Science and Technology and the UK Ministry of Defence. Archangel Lightworks said it has memoranda of understanding with companies including Starcloud and Omantel, as well as a number of commercial contracts.