From Earth to the Moon: Precision in Motion
Ommatidia powers lunar navigation using advanced LiDAR systems built for accuracy and speed. We’re proud to share that our technology has been featured in the latest SPIE publication, presented at ICSO 2024.
This exciting project shows how Ommatidia’s photonics technology can help spacecraft land safely on the Moon. It combines real-time 3D imaging with reliable, fast data processing—crucial for safe navigation during landing.
Lunar Surface Point Cloud
🛰️ How Ommatidia Powers Lunar Navigation
In this project, Ommatidia powers lunar navigation through a modified version of our ANT LiDAR system. Built on FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) technology, this system helps spacecraft understand their surroundings without using GPS. Multi-beam scanning for wide, real-time coverage High-speed 3D imaging, even during descent Lightweight, compact hardware for space missions A flexible design that grows with mission needs As a result, the LiDAR unit was integrated into a test platform that simulates landing and docking. This test proved that our solution is both precise and reliable in harsh space conditions.What We Delivered:
🌍 From Lunar Landings to Industrial Applications
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Ommatidia’s success in this project isn’t limited to space. In fact, it highlights how our systems can support many industries here on Earth.
For example, the same technology that helps spacecraft land can also:
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Improve structural monitoring of bridges and buildings
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Guide robots inside smart factories
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Help autonomous vehicles sense their environment
🔗 Discover our Photonics Roadmap
In short, Ommatidia powers lunar navigation while also offering practical tools for today’s most demanding engineering challenges.
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The project also confirms the strength of integrated photonics, a key part of all our systems. By reducing size and weight while keeping accuracy high, integrated photonics makes LiDAR solutions better for every industry. 📖 Read the full SPIE paper: Lightfield LiDAR System for Lunar Landing Assistance In addition, this technology reduces the cost and complexity of sensing systems—without sacrificing quality. This work was done under the TKI (Topconsortia voor Kennis en Innovatie) program. It was led by TNO, with support from RVO and the leadership of Fabrizio Silvestri. Thanks to our Dutch partners for helping make this vision a reality. Together, we showed how smart sensing can move from theory to real-world performance. Lunar Landing powered by LiDAR🔬 Focused on Simplicity and Precision
🤝 A Project Built on Strong Partnerships
📩 Get Involved
Are you working on spacecraft, smart factories, or advanced automation? We’d love to talk.
