STARLight Project chosen as the European consortium to take the lead in next-generation Silicon Photonics on 300mm wafers

Core Viewpoint - The STARLight project aims to establish Europe as a leader in 300mm silicon photonics technology by developing high-volume manufacturing lines and application-driven solutions for key sectors such as datacenters, AI clusters, telecommunications, and automotive markets [1][3][7]. Group 1: Project Overview - The STARLight consortium, led by STMicroelectronics, has been selected by the European Commission under the EU CHIPS Joint Undertaking initiative [2]. - The project will run until 2028, focusing on creating innovative optical modules and a complete value chain for silicon photonics [1][3]. - The consortium includes 24 leading technology companies and universities from 11 EU countries [7]. Group 2: Technological Focus - Silicon photonics technology is essential for enhancing data transfer efficiency in datacenters and AI clusters, as well as in applications like LIDAR and space technologies [4]. - The project will develop advanced Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) to address challenges in high-speed data communication, targeting up to 200Gb/s for datacom applications [5][6]. - Key innovations will include high-speed modulators, efficient on-chip lasers, and the exploration of new materials for silicon photonics platforms [8]. Group 3: Industry Applications - In the datacenter sector, STARLight will create demonstrators based on PIC100 technology and develop prototypes for free-space optical transmission systems [5]. - For AI applications, the project aims to develop a photonic processor optimized for tensor operations, enhancing AI processing performance [9]. - In telecommunications, the project will focus on integrated switches for mobile networks and Radio over Fiber technology to improve data traffic handling [10]. Group 4: Automotive and Sensing - The project will also explore applications in automotive sensing, with partnerships aimed at integrating LiDAR technology into vehicles [11][12]. - THALES will develop sensors for signal processing, contributing to the broader ecosystem of autonomous robotics [12]. Group 5: Consortium Contributions - Major contributors like CEA-Leti, imec, and Soitec will leverage their expertise to advance silicon photonics technology and address industry challenges [14][15][18]. - The collaboration aims to enhance manufacturing quality, scalability, and reduce environmental impact in photonics applications [18][19].