Test Platform for Reliable Optical Communication
OPTIMUS
Future-Proof Connectivity
OPTIMUS (Optical Communication Multi-User System) is a European development project aimed at creating a scalable network test bed to test the interfaces to optical ground stations.
The platform lays the foundation for Space to Ground Optical Communications as a Service (OCaaS), addressing standardisation topics and laying the foundation for a global and interoperable network of Optical Ground Stations.
Key Technological Components
OPTIMUS combines five core modules into a unified architecture:
Human-Machine Interface (HMI)
A web-based portal for the registration and management of users, Optical Ground Stations (OGS), and Network Operation Centers (NOC). It supports role-based access, mission planning, and real-time visualizations.
Scheduler & Optimization Engine
Automates the scheduling and dynamic adjustment of transmission windows, factoring in visibility, weather, maintenance periods, link budgets, and cost constraints.
Holistic Control Centre (HCC)
The core system infrastructure delivering runtime management, secure service orchestration, configuration, and logging functionalities.
Emulator
Emulate real-world satellite and ground station interactions under variable conditions such as latency, packet loss, and handovers—enabling full end-to-end validation.
Central Monitoring System (CMS)
Aggregates operational data across all subsystems, facilitating system diagnostics and real-time health monitoring.
Your Benefits at a Glance
OPTIMUS is leading the research and development for Direct to Earth Optical Communication to ensure the associated systems are operable, maintainable, efficient and secure.
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Centralized Resource Management across multiple ground stations
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Realistic Test Conditions through advanced emulation features
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Open and Interoperable architecture based on standardized API
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Cost-Efficient with modular design
Use Cases
Satellite downlink via single or multiple optical station ground infrastructures
Standardization of future optical communication systems
Support for advanced applications such as Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Lunar Communication
Project Partners
OPTIMUS brings together a strong consortium of European partners with deep expertise in optical communication, satellite operations, software engineering, network infrastructure, and applied research:
Funding partner and program coordinator
Prime Contractor
Subcontractors
DLR Space Operations and Astronaut Training and
DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation and
DLR Responsive Space Cluster Competence Center
Germany
Swedish Space Corporation
Sweden
