AEye, Inc. (Nasdaq: LIDR) unveiled Stratos(TM), the latest generation of its software-defined LiDAR technology designed to significantly extend object detection range and performance across demanding applications. This marks a notable advancement in LiDAR sensing, with Stratos capable of reliably detecting objects at distances reaching up to 1.5 kilometers -- a key benchmark in long-range environmental perception.

Stratos: Next-Generation Ultra-Long-Range Sensing

Stratos is engineered around a combination of cutting-edge optics and a software-defined architecture, delivering a compact, scalable LiDAR sensor that achieves ultra-long-range detection while maintaining high resolution and system efficiency. The platform is designed to meet stringent requirements for accuracy and situational awareness in complex, high-speed, and safety-critical environments.

Although the sensor's full 1.5 kilometer range applies to open-air and infrastructure contexts, when integrated behind a vehicle windshield -- such as in automotive or commercial truck applications -- the system can still detect obstacles at effective mid-range distances (up to 500 meters) with enhanced clarity.

AEye CEO Matt Fisch described Stratos as a "significant leap forward in long-range LiDAR capability," highlighting the sensor's ability to help autonomous and assisted systems recognize objects earlier, improve reaction time, and increase operational safety at highway speeds and in challenging scenarios.

Strategic Positioning in the LiDAR Market

The Stratos launch builds on AEye's existing product lineup, including the Apollo LiDAR sensor -- capable of detecting objects up to one kilometer -- and the broader OPTIS(TM) platform, which integrates hardware, perception software, and real-time interpretation capabilities.

By extending detection range beyond 1 km and doubling resolution relative to prior offerings, Stratos positions AEye to serve markets where early object detection and precise environmental mapping are critical -- including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous vehicles, rail and aviation safety systems, defense and security surveillance, and smart infrastructure deployments.

Industry Context & Market Implications

Long-range LiDAR has become a central performance metric in the race to commercialize perception systems that support automated decision-making and physical AI applications. Stratos sets a new expectation for range and resolution in a compact, cost-competitive package, addressing customer demand for systems that can operate effectively across longer sight lines without sacrificing form factor or integration flexibility.

This announcement comes at a time of active competition among LiDAR developers on range, resolution, reliability, and cost, as the industry seeks to embed sensing technologies into fleets, infrastructure projects, and defense platforms.

The post AEye Sets New Standard with Stratos Ultra-Long-Range LiDAR, Detecting Objects Up to 1.5 Kilometers appeared first on PRISM MarketView.

COMTEX_471810366/2927/2026-01-05T12:30:27