Lopes Project develops optical telescopes to monitor space traffic

Atlar's initiative aims to create lightweight and fast equipment to track low Earth orbit objects, strengthening national capabilities.

Generic image of advanced optical components and telescope parts, with blurred orbital paths and faint stars in the background.
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Generic image of advanced optical components and telescope parts, with blurred orbital paths and faint stars in the background.

The company Atlar is developing a new generation of optical telescopes, named the Lopes project, to monitor and track low Earth orbit objects, strengthening national capabilities in a strategic sector.

The Lopes project (LEO OPtical TelEscope for Space) arises from the need to track the growing space traffic, composed of satellites and other orbital debris. Promoted by Atlar, based in Pampilhosa da Serra, it aims to develop lightweight, fast telescopes with a wide field of view.
Using advanced optical sensors, the technology will enable observation and tracking of objects in low orbits, collecting essential data for space surveillance services and collision risk prevention. The company aims to establish itself in an expanding international market and develop specialized skills in Portugal.
Atlar will present the Lopes project and its work in space monitoring and tracking at the Mostra dos Fundos Europeus, at the COMPETE 2030 stand.
Based on information from the official source: COMPETE 2030 (29/10/2026)