University of Nottingham Joins £2.1m Next-Generation Satellite Communications Project

Experts from the University of Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering are partnering with Exobotics Ltd and Archangel Lightworks on STARS, a £2.1 million project developing next-generation optical satellite communications. The project will demonstrate ultra-fast, resilient and near real-time connectivity between satellites and the ground, delivering the first satellites in a planned future data-relay network for rapid transfer of mission-critical data.

STARS was selected through the Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) Programme and is one of 16 projects benefiting from a wider £13 million UK Government investment, delivered through the European Space Agency’s ARTES programme. The award highlights the contribution of Midlands research expertise to the UK’s growing satellite communications capability and the development of faster and more resilient space connectivity.