TESAT has delivered the first SCOT20 Optical Communication Terminal (OCT) flight model to Planetek Hellas—this terminal will be deployed on Optisat, Planetek Hellas’ pioneering mission under Greece’s National Satellite Space Program, supported by the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Directorate of Connectivity and Secure Communications.
The Optisat mission is among Greece’s first CubeSat projects to demonstrate secure laser-based communications from orbit. In the Optisat mission context, the SCOT20 confirms TESAT’s capability to provide high-performance, compact optical communication solutions for micro- and nanosatellites (smallsats).
Using laser light instead of radio frequency (RF) signals, the SCOT20 supports data rates up to 1 Gbps, providing enhanced security against interception or jamming. These capabilities are crucial for missions requiring high speed and secure data transmission. The SCOT20 follows major standards in optical communication such as SDA and ESTOL.
The Optisat mission also serves as a platform for collaboration with both Greek and European partners. In Greece, Planetek Hellas is working with the University of Piraeus Digital Systems Lab, JNP Consultancy Services, and BitRezus (ESA BIC Greece) to integrate advanced cybersecurity, blockchain, and AI-based technologies. At the European level, the mission is supported by leading suppliers including TESAT, EnduroSat, SkyLabs, D-Orbit and Planetek Italia, bringing together a strong industrial and technological ecosystem.
Our first SCOT20 delivery is an important step in making optical communications available to the small satellite segment,” said Sven Rettig, CCO of TESAT. “With its compact design and strong performance, SCOT20 sets new benchmarks for MicroSat and NanoSat applications.”
Stelios Bollanos, CEO & Co-founder of Planetek Hellas, said, “We are proud to lead this national and European effort, enabled by the Hellenic Ministry of Digital Governance and ESA. This mission confirms the ability of our team here in Athens to design and deliver end-to-end New Space solutions, while leveraging European industrial leadership in space technologies.”
