Vector Photonics Demonstrates PCSEL in First Outdoor Free Space Optical Communication Test Across Glasgow's River Clyde

Vector Photonics, a Scottish start-up developing photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSEL) for secure communications, has conducted the first successful public demonstration of PCSEL technology for optical communication outside of a laboratory. On 31 March 2026, Vector Photonics’ PCSELs transmitted data across the River Clyde from the Glasgow Science Centre to the Clydeside Distillery. The free-space optical communication system was designed and built by Fraunhofer UK.

Dr Richard Taylor, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Vector Photonics, stated that the demonstration represents a major step forward, proving the technology is a commercial reality in real-world applications. He described it as the most advanced application of a PCSEL to date, advancing the technology from a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4/5 to 6/7. Employing the technology in open space allowed it to operate under varying environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind turbulence, over a considerable distance. Prior efforts had been limited to laboratory experiments under ideal conditions and simulations.

PCSELs combine the high power of edge-emitting lasers with the speed and surface emission of vertical-cavity surface-e...