NTT Enters Memorandum of Understanding with MBRYONICS for Space Optical Communication Partnership

NTT Corporation announced on June 3, 2026, that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MBRYONICS, Ltd., an Ireland-based developer of optical communication platforms for space, to form a partnership in the field of space optical communications.

This initiative aims to apply NTT's IOWN technology to the space business sector, marking an important step for the IOWN initiative. Under this MoU, MBRYONICS will proceed with the development of optical transceiver modules equipped with NTT's digital coherent technology.

1. Background and Purpose In recent years, with the expansion of satellite constellations and rising demand for data communication, the importance of high-capacity, low-latency communication infrastructure in space has grown. The use of optical communication technology, alongside traditional radio communication, is expected to be vital for achieving this. NTT has been conducting R&D on optical communication and signal processing technology for terrestrial networks under its 'IOWN' (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network) initiative. MBRYONICS specializes in laser optical communication technology for inter-satellite and satellite-to-ground links. Through this MoU, both companies will explore expanding the application of NTT's optical technology into space and examine its potential through demonstration.

2. Scope of Collaboration MBRYONICS will develop optical transceiver modules equipped with digital coherent technology researched and developed by NTT. These modules are planned to be integrated into several space-based Optical Communication Terminals (OCTs) slated for commercialization. The adoption of these modules will enable a significant increase in communication speeds—more than 10 times higher than conventional methods.

3. Future Outlook NTT and MBRYONICS will continue exploring business development in space optical communications, aiming to build space infrastructure based on IOWN technology and expand NTT Group’s space business brand, 'NTT C89'.