Optera Solutions selected for Thales Alenia Space Accelerator Program

Australian technology company Optera Solutions has been selected to participate in the Thales Alenia Space Accelerator Program in Toulouse, France. The six-month initiative, which began in September 2024, aims to support innovative start-ups in the space industry by providing mentorship, technical resources, and collaboration opportunities with Thales Alenia Space. Optera Solutions and Neuromorphic Sensing Technology

Optera Solutions is an Australian start-up originating from the International Centre for Neuromorphic Systems (ICNS) at Western Sydney University. The company specializes in neuromorphic Event-Based Sensing (EBS) technology, which is designed to improve space imaging and remote sensing capabilities.

Unlike traditional camera sensors that capture entire frames at set intervals, EBS technology utilizes pixel arrays that activate in response to changes in light intensity. This approach enhances efficiency by reducing redundant data, lowering power consumption, and improving real-time processing capabilities.

Potential Applications in Space Technology

Optera’s EBS technology addresses Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints associated with space-based optical and infrared sensors. By optimizing data processing and transmission, the technology has potential applications in Earth observation, satellite navigation, and deep-space exploration.

The Thales Alenia Space Accelerator will provide Optera with access to technical expertise and industry insights to refine its technology for integration into future aerospace systems. The program is expected to help position the company within the evolving global space industry.

Thales Alenia Space Accelerator Initiative

The Thales Alenia Space Accelerator was established to support emerging space technology companies by offering mentorship, research facilities, and business development support. Hosted at the company’s Toulouse facility, the program connects start-ups with industry professionals, potential partners, and investors in the aerospace sector.

By participating in the accelerator, Optera Solutions aims to gain a better understanding of global space market demands while advancing its sensing technology for commercial and governmental applications.

Industry Perspectives

Jonathon Wolfe, Founder and CEO of Optera Solutions: “The opportunity to work within the Thales Space Business Catalyst and have access to the insights and their technical expertise to rapidly iterate and solve the markets toughest challenges is second to none. Getting close to the customer and having the support of the Thales ecosystem to go to market on a global scale is what Optera is all about. It’s up to us to make this the most of this opportunity”.

Vincent Clot, Director of the Space Business Catalyst (SBC) at Thales Alenia Space: “Supporting Optera, beyond the very promising use cases we are tackling together, demonstrates the global outreach of the Acceleration Program of the SBC together and thanks to Thales Group globally. In particular, through the effort initiated by the Thales Australia’s Global Supply Chain Program, we are now able to build together with Optera added value for our space solutions.”

Australia’s Growing Space Industry

Optera’s selection for the Thales Alenia Space Accelerator underscores the increasing prominence of Australia’s space sector. The Australian government has been actively supporting space technology innovation through initiatives such as the Global Supply Chain Program, which assists local companies in accessing international markets.

Thales Australia has also contributed to the country’s space and defense industries by fostering collaborations that help start-ups expand their capabilities and reach. Optera’s involvement in the accelerator highlights Australia’s advancements in space research and technology.

Future Prospects

As Optera progresses through the accelerator program, the company plans to refine its neuromorphic sensing technology for a range of space applications. The goal is to establish commercial partnerships and enable large-scale deployment of the technology in both governmental and private-sector satellite missions.

Conclusion

Optera Solutions’ participation in the Thales Alenia Space Accelerator represents a key milestone in its development and in Australia’s broader contributions to the space industry. By leveraging international partnerships and advancing its neuromorphic sensing technology, the company is set to play a role in the future of space-based sensing and satellite imaging systems.