en.Wedoany.com Report on Mar 21st, Italian optomechanical systems manufacturer Officina Stellare recently signed a contract worth €1.84 million (approximately $2 million) with the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) in Barcelona to build an optical ground station in Spain focused on laser and quantum encryption for space-to-ground communications. This laser communication ground station project aims to provide crucial infrastructure support for advanced communication technologies in Europe.
According to the contract, Officina Stellare will be responsible for the overall design and construction of the laser communication ground station, covering core components from telescopes and domes to test platforms and control software. The company's Chief Commercial Officer, Pierpaolo Pergola, told SpaceNews: "The station is designed to be compatible with both laser and quantum communication applications."
Pergola added: "This work aligns with Europe's goal of maintaining a competitive edge in quantum and photonic technologies. By strengthening the foundation for secure optical and quantum links, the project supports national and European efforts to promote autonomy, higher-capacity connectivity, and a robust integrated space-ground infrastructure."
Founded in 2009, Officina Stellare initially focused on manufacturing space-based Earth observation telescopes. After going public in 2019, the company expanded its business into laser communications, surveillance, ground systems, and cybersecurity. This contract is part of a series of recent strategic moves by the company, including an agreement in October 2025 with US-based Skyloom Global Corp. to manufacture laser communication optical systems for the European market, and a merger with the Global Aerospace Technologies Group around the same period.
The laser communication ground station being built for ICFO will be dedicated to civilian use. It is expected to be completed within six months and operational within 12 months. Pergola further noted: "This project advances key capabilities for laser communication systems, aiming to increase bandwidth, reduce latency, and enhance link resilience for next-generation networks." He explained that the company's long-term vision is to develop space laser communication terminals that can be deployed on satellites in various orbits, combining high performance with scalable production.
