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STEERLIGHT, a new generation of lidar sensors

Published on 23 April 2025
Reliable, three-dimensional optical sensors to protect people and goods in motion

SteerLight is a deep tech startup founded in 2022. It has developed a new generation of LiDAR: laser-based optical systems that can perceive the environment in 3D with unparalleled precision and resolution. The quality of these systems translates into decisive advantages in a range of use cases, including guaranteeing that autonomous vehicles and robots can move around safely.


SteerLight component. Courtesy of: SteerLight


The SteerLight solution is based on a disruptive coherent infrared LiDAR architecture. The LiDAR is fully integrated onto silicon photonic chips using standard microelectronics processes and does not have any moving mechanical parts. SteerLight LiDAR-on-chip is compact, robust, and—because it is volume-manufacturable—affordable.

Its innovative and coherent detection architecture ensures improved performance for distance and real-time velocity measurements.

It is the result of fifteen years of research in CEA laboratories in the fields of silicon photonics, electronics, and embedded computing. 

Its extremely miniaturized sensor will secure the mobility of goods and people and contribute to making cities smarter, a market with prospects of over $2 billion by 2030.​

Key Figure: <20 cm³​

Integrated sensor volume < 20 cm3


Targeted Markets:

  • Logistics and manufacturing: mobile autonomous robots
  • Urban transportation: people and goods
  • Urban security: securing dangerous areas


Technologies used:

  • Silicon photonic FMCW architecture


Year founded: 2022

CEA Institute: CEA-Leti