AEye, Inc. has introduced Stratos, a third-generation lidar sensor capable of detecting objects at distances up to 1.5 kilometers. The announcement positions the software-defined lidar specialist as a leader in ultra-long-range sensing technology for autonomous vehicles and other safety-critical applications.
Highlights
- Stratos detects objects at up to 1.5 kilometers, establishing a new benchmark for ultra-long-range lidar performance
- Resolution exceeds twice that of AEye’s Apollo sensor, enabling improved object recognition at extended distances
- Compact form factor approximately smartphone-sized allows windshield-mounted installation in automotive applications
- Multi-industry applications span automotive, trucking, aviation, defense, and rail sectors
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Stratos combines advanced optics with AEye’s software-defined architecture to deliver high resolution and extended range in a compact, scalable package. The sensor achieves 500-meter detection when mounted behind a vehicle windshield, while open-air installations reach the full 1.5-kilometer capability.
The resolution improvement over the company’s Apollo sensor—more than double—enables earlier object recognition and enhanced situational awareness. This performance targets high-speed environments where extended detection time translates directly to improved safety margins.
Market Applications
AEye designed Stratos to address demanding use cases across multiple industries. Automotive and trucking applications benefit from windshield-mountable deployment, while the full 1.5-kilometer range opens opportunities in aviation, defense, and rail sectors.
“Stratos represents a significant leap forward in long-range lidar capability, bringing the ultimate perception capability to the realm of physical AI,” said Matt Fisch, CEO of AEye. “By extending detection out to 1.5 kilometers while maintaining precision and system efficiency in a small form factor, we’re providing a cost disruptive solution that enables our customers to detect the smallest objects much earlier, react sooner, and operate more safely in real-world conditions, even at high speeds.”
Company Background
AEye develops software-defined lidar solutions for advanced driver-assistance systems, vehicle autonomy, smart infrastructure, security, defense, and logistics applications. The company’s Apollo sensor has gained recognition for its compact form factor and one-kilometer detection capability. AEye also offers the OPTIS platform, a full-stack solution that captures high-resolution 3D imagery, interprets environmental data, and provides real-time directional guidance.
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