Lightsonic Raises €3.3M to Transform Critical Infrastructure Monitoring with AI-Powered Fiber Optic Technology
Lightsonic, a UK-Norwegian software firm with expertise in AI-based fiber optic sensing for industrial monitoring, has raised €3.3 million in seed capital to further develop its cutting-edge solutions for critical infrastructure, as reported by TFN.
The funding, led by Maki VC, with participation from RAISEVentures and Sondo, will enable Lightsonic to drive product development at a faster pace and expand its technology to enhance the sustainability, resilience, and security of critical infrastructure globally.
Converting Fiber Optic Networks into Smart Sensor Systems
The firm's advanced software platform transforms current fiber optic networks into high-resolution, real-time sensor networks that can monitor massive infrastructure such as water and gas pipelines, energy distribution networks, telco networks, and subsea assets.
Through the use of machine learning and AI analytics, Lightsonic facilitates continuous monitoring and early warning detection of potential problems such as leaks, equipment malfunctions, and security breaches without incurring expensive hardware upgrades.
Tommy Langnes, co-founder and CEO of Lightsonic said, “This investment marks a significant milestone in our mission to enhance the safety, sustainability, and efficiency of critical infrastructure worldwide. We are grateful for the trust and support of our investors as we bring our cutting-edge fibre optic sensing solutions to market.”
Meeting the Overriding Requirement for Infrastructure Monitoring
Having over 25 years of combined experience in building fiber optic and AI/ML solutions for major industrial customers, Lightsonic's team has broadened its scope from the oil and gas sector to water, defense, and other essential sectors.
The company’s software works by analyzing backscattered light signals from existing fiber optic cables to detect acoustic, temperature, and vibrational changes, instantly classifying potential threats or events.
According to TFN, The platform is particularly relevant for industries facing increasing pressure from climate change and urbanization. For example, the UK’s water utilities lost over 1 trillion liters to leaks in 2023 alone. Lightsonic’s technology offers a scalable, cost-effective solution for managing such infrastructure issues.
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Building on a Legacy of Innovation
Lightsonic was founded in 2024 by Tommy Langnes, Thomas Coleman, and James Ramsay, who previously developed fiber optic systems for BP’s well monitoring operations, generating over $1 billion in value. Following the discontinuation of this technology by BP in 2023, the team pivoted to address broader challenges in water, gas, and defense sectors.
The company’s success has garnered attention from investors, including Maki VC, RAISEVentures, and Sondo, who recognize the impact of Lightsonic’s technology on both sustainability and operational efficiency
