OpSTAR: An In-Orbit Demonstrator for Optical Time Transfer and Positioning in Future Space Networks

In 30 seconds

The OpSTAR mission demonstrates high-precision space-based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) using dual laser communication terminals in medium Earth orbit. By establishing concurrent inter-satellite and space-to-ground optical links, the system validates picosecond-level time synchronization and centimeter-level ranging. This architecture provides the foundational capability for the next generation of robust, high-accuracy space network infrastructure.