We have been specialists in photo sensor technologies since 1937. Photonis innovates, develops and manufactures a variety of sensors and detectors for the detection of ions, electrons and photons. Our innovative solutions are applied in defence, science, industry and medical research. The organisation employs 1,200 people worldwide, with around 350 people working in Roden. 

One technology, different markets
PHOTONIS is a leading player in the mass spectrometry market and has installed various components in most space telescopes and high energy physics experiments in laboratories around the world. Examples include the particle accelerator in Geneva at CERN and the Rosetta space probe. For defence organisations, PHOTONIS offers unrivalled night vision technology used in night vision goggles, weapon sights, monocles and other applications and devices that operate in low light conditions.

World market leader in brightness amplifiers
Most of PHOTONIS Netherlands' activities are focused on night vision and the company is today the world market leader in developing and manufacturing state-of-the-art brightness amplifiers for military, space and commercial purposes.

To operate successfully in this high-tech market, it is necessary to combine various fields of knowledge, such as physics, chemistry, electronics and ultra-high vacuum technology in one production process and one product. The night vision market is a strongly defined market with only a handful of specialised market players. The key to success in this market is the performance of the sensor. This is one of the main reasons that PHOTONIS' strategy is focused on technology leadership.

Digital sensors 
Drawing on its long-standing expertise in night vision technology, PHOTONIS also designs digital sensors to operate both during the day and at night. In addition, PHOTONIS digital sensors can be used by other OEMs and integrators and are not affected by weather conditions such as rain, wind, large temperature fluctuations, exposure to direct sunlight or glass protection. The digital sensors are the core of the NOCTURN camera; an application of dedicated camera electronics, serving the UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), land border and port security market. 

Future
25% of the workforce are scientists and approximately 10% of turnover is invested in R&D each year. This ensures an active role in many international high-profile experiments and projects, often in cooperation with internationally oriented institutes such as TNO, CERN, ESA and NASA. PHOTONIS will continue to nurture its market leadership in the future, not only in terms of turnover, but mainly in setting the standard in photo sensor technology. Given the current market position and the enthusiasm of the staff, this scenario is very promising.