Space Photonics Inc. announced today that it has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with SCHOTT North America Inc. to commercialize its patented communications technology for military and intelligence customers.
The agreement was announced during a morning ceremony at the Arkansas Research and Technology Park. Space Photonics is a Genesis Technology Incubator client within the technology park.
“It is exciting to see Space Photonics continue to grow and be successful,” said Jim Rankin, vice provost for research and economic development at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. “Its success reflects well on the research and innovation capabilities at the University of Arkansas and in the state of Arkansas.”
Space Photonics patented its LaserFire Free Space Optical Communication Systems. The covert optical wireless technology enables uninterrupted, secure high-capacity communications.
Chuck Chalfant, president and CEO of Space Photonics, said SCHOTT is a world-renowned supplier and manufacturer of optical components.
“The partnership for us in huge,” Chalfant said. “We hope to start generating sales in the next six to nine months. We thought up some cool stuff and now it works really well. We’ve found the perfect partner.”
SCHOTT’s Lighting and Imaging unit in Southbridge, Mass., will begin manufacturing the LaserFire system by the end of this year.
Revenue from the agreement will allow Space Photonics to expand. Currently, 10 of its 12 full-time employees are University of Arkansas graduates.
