Lithuanian space startup Astrolight has achieved a significant milestone by advancing to the second stage of NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). Selected as one of the top 10 innovators from NATO countries, the company will receive up to €300,000 in investments.
Astrolight gained international recognition for its laser communication technology, which enables data transmission 10 times faster and more securely than traditional radio frequency-based systems. This breakthrough has positioned the startup as a key player in advancing secure and high-speed communication solutions.
DIANA’s Top 10 Innovators
The top 10 innovators were chosen from a pool of 44 companies that joined the first cohort of DIANA’s accelerator programme in 2023. These companies were evaluated on their progress in both commercial and defence markets, technical innovation, and readiness to leverage investment opportunities. DIANA, established by NATO allies, seeks to address critical security challenges through new dual-use technologies.
According to Sigutė Stankevičiūtė, head of the ManuFuture Lab division at the Innovation Agency, “Astrolight’s success in the defence sector sets an example for other startups in Lithuania. Secure communication is critical in many areas, especially in defence and security. We hope Astrolight’s achievements inspire other Lithuanian companies to compete globally.”
Strengthening Lithuania’s Space and Laser Technology Sector
Laurynas Mačiulis, co-founder and CEO of Astrolight, emphasised that this recognition strengthens Lithuania’s position in the laser and space technology sectors. The startup’s progress in the second stage of DIANA will bring access to additional funding, specialised training, investor networks, and opportunities to apply its products in the defence sector.
“Although our long-term vision is to open new communication possibilities in space through lasers, our current priority is to adapt our technologies for NATO partners,” said Mačiulis.
Innovative Solutions for NATO’s Future
One of the innovations that helped Astrolight reach the next stage is ATLAS, a laser transmitter designed for satellites that enables data transmission 10 times faster from high-resolution sensors in low-earth orbit. Another product, POLARIS, is designed for tactical, radio jamming-resistant communication between military ships. POLARIS aims to replace traditional signal lamps still used on ships and is being developed in collaboration with the Lithuanian Navy and partners from the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology.
Astrolight’s technology is expected to replace radio frequency-based communication systems in environments where extremely high-speed, jamming-resistant communication is essential.
With its innovative solutions, Astrolight is setting new standards for secure communication in the defence sector, solidifying Lithuania’s reputation as a key player in global technology development.
