Baris I. Erkmen
About Baris I. Erkmen
Chief Technology Officer at Aalyria Space
Baris Erkmen currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for Aalyria Space. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the company's technological advancements and strategies. His expertise in optical communication systems and his background in both classical and quantum properties of light position him to drive innovation in space communication technologies.
Former CEO of Hedron
Before his role at Aalyria Space, Baris Erkmen held the position of CEO at Hedron. His leadership at Hedron contributed to the company's progress in developing advanced communication solutions, leveraging his extensive background in both technical and managerial capacities.
CTO of Project Taara at Google X
Baris Erkmen served as the Chief Technology Officer for Project Taara at Google X. In this position, he led initiatives aimed at enhancing high-speed internet connectivity using innovative optical wireless technologies. His work on Project Taara is part of Google X's broader efforts to develop moonshot technologies that have the potential to improve global communication infrastructure.
Lead for Project Loon's Free-Space Optical Communications
Baris Erkmen played a significant role as the lead for Project Loon’s Free-Space Optical Communications effort. This project focused on providing internet access to remote areas through high-altitude balloons, and Erkmen's contribution was pivotal in the development and deployment of the optical communication systems required for data transmission.
Principal Investigator for NASA's OPALS
In his capacity as Principal Investigator, Baris Erkmen led NASA's OPALS (Optical Payload for Lasercomm Science) project. This demonstration showcased the feasibility of using laser communications for data transmission in space, highlighting Erkmen's expertise in laser communication technologies. The project's success under his guidance added valuable insights into the capabilities and future applications of laser communication in space missions.
Elected Fellow of Optica
Baris Erkmen is an elected Fellow of Optica, an honor recognizing his contributions to the field of wireless optical communication systems. Optica, formerly known as the Optical Society of America, is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the study and application of optics and photonics. Erkmen's election as a Fellow underscores his significant achievements and impact in this specialized field.
Education and Research Focus
Baris Erkmen holds a PhD from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Electrical Engineering. His research interests lie in applying both classical and quantum properties of light to enhance communication and sensing capabilities. This academic background provides a strong foundation for his innovative work in optical communication systems and his various leadership roles in technology projects.