OpenWorks is partnering with the North East Space Communications Accelerator (NESCA) at Northumbria University to support a Gimbal-Stabilised Optical Communications Project, led by Dr Amna Riaz.
Dr Amna Riaz, a Post-doctoral Research Associate in the Space Technology Group at Northumbria University, has led the Gimbal-Stabilised Optical Communications for Multi-Domain Applications project, advancing one of the biggest challenges in laser-based space communications; maintaining a precise optical link between moving platforms. Supported by NESCA, the project will develop a flight-ready prototype capable of delivering reliable, high-speed optical communications for both space and security applications.
A key strength of this project is partnership with OpenWorks Engineering, whose expertise in precision stabilisation, intelligent optical tracking and autonomous systems will help translate cutting-edge academic research into a commercially viable technology. By combining Northumbria University’s research excellence with OpenWorks’ proven engineering capabilities, the collaboration aims to accelerate the development of robust optical communication systems with applications across the space and security sectors.
“We are excited to be working with Dr Amna Riaz, Professor Eamon Scullion and the wider Northumbria University team through the NESCA programme. By combining Northumbria’s optical communications expertise with OpenWorks’ precision positioning and tracking technologies, we have a unique opportunity to push the boundaries of long-range sensing and tracking, and to develop expertise that will translate into applications far beyond security whilst also exploring new thinking to counter malicious dynamic threats.”
Rory O’Hagon – Head of Sales at OpenWorks
“Laser communication systems are only as effective as their ability to stay precisely locked on target, especially when operating across moving platforms. This is where OpenWorks Engineering’s expertise in precision tracking and stabilisation is so valuable. Through this partnership, we are combining our FOCUS optical communications terminal with OpenWorks’ ruggedised gimbal platform to move the technology beyond the laboratory and towards practical deployment. Together, we are bringing two complementary areas of engineering together to develop a capability that can support future space, airborne and ground-based optical communications.”
Dr Amna Riaz – Postdoctoral Researcher at Northumbria University
This industry-academic partnership illustrates the purpose of NESCA. Bringing together researchers and innovative businesses to fast-track technologies with real-world impact, strengthen the North East’s growing space sector and create opportunities for future commercialisation and regional economic growth.
