aXenic and Durham University Collaborate to Advance Optical Space Communications
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
As members of the thriving North East space ecosystem, aXenic and Durham University are demonstrating how regional collaboration, supported by the North East Space Communication Accelerator (NESCA), is helping to develop the next generation of optical communications technologies for the space sector.
Collaboration is at the heart of innovation, and the North East is proving how powerful regional partnerships can be in advancing the UK's space sector.
As a member of the Space North East England cluster, aXenic is proud to be part of a thriving ecosystem that brings together industry, academia and public sector partners to develop next-generation space technologies. Based at NETPark in County Durham, aXenic specialises in the design, development and manufacture of Gallium Arsenide Mach-Zehnder modulators for high-performance optical communications.
One of the latest examples of this collaborative approach is aXenic's partnership with the Centre for Advanced Instrumentation at Durham University through the North East Space Communication Accelerator (NESCA). With aXenic located at NETPark and Durham University a key research partner within the region, the collaboration demonstrates how shared expertise and close connections can accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies.
Supported by NESCA funding, the project will explore the future use of aXenic's optical modulators in optical ground stations while assessing their potential for a wider range of advanced optical communication terminals. By combining Durham University's internationally recognised research capabilities with aXenic's expertise in optical communication technology, the collaboration aims to help address the growing demand for resilient, high-speed space communication systems.
This partnership is a great example of what makes the North East's space community unique. Through the Space North East England cluster, organisations can build meaningful collaborations, access world-class research expertise and accelerate the commercialisation of innovative technologies that support the UK's growing space ambitions.
As the region continues to strengthen its position within the UK space sector, partnerships like this demonstrate how businesses, universities and innovation programmes can work together to deliver technologies with real-world impact, reinforcing North East England's reputation as a centre for excellence in space communications and advanced photonics.
