Exosens

Since 1937, we have been specialists in photo sensor technologies. The organization innovates, develops, and manufactures a diversity of sensors and detectors for the detection of ions, electrons, and photons. Our innovative solutions are applied in defense, science, industry, and medical research. Globally, the organization has 1,500 employees, of whom approximately 500 are active in Roden. 

One technology, different markets
Exosens, formerly 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 worldwide. Examples include the particle accelerator at CERN in Geneva and the Rosetta space probe. For defense organizations, Exosens offers unparalleled night vision technology used in night vision goggles, weapon sights, monoculars, and other low-light applications and devices.

World market leader in brightness amplifiers
Most of Exosens Nederland's activities are focused on night vision, and the company is today the global market leader in the development and production of state-of-the-art image intensifiers for military, space, and commercial applications.

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, within a single production process and a single product. The night vision market is a highly specialized market with only a handful of specific market players. The key to success in this market is sensor performance. This is one of the main reasons why Exosens' strategy is focused on technological leadership.

Digital sensors 
Leveraging years of expertise in night vision technology, Exosens also designs digital sensors for operation both day and night. PHOTONIS digital sensors can be excellently utilized by other OEMs and integrators and are not susceptible to weather conditions, such as rain, wind, large temperature fluctuations, exposure to direct sunlight, or glass protection. The digital sensors form the heart of the NOCTURN camera; an application of special camera electronics, serving the market of UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), land border, and port security. 

Future
Of the workforce, 25% are scientists, and approximately 10% of annual revenue is invested in R&D; This enables the company to play an active role in many high-profile international experiments and projects, often in collaboration with internationally oriented institutions such as TNO, CERN, ESA, and NASA. Exosens will continue to nurture its market leadership in the future, not only in terms of revenue, but primarily in setting the standard in photo sensor technology. Given the current market position and the enthusiasm of the staff, this scenario is highly promising.