General Atomics on Wednesday said it has acquired Guidestar Optical Systems, Inc., a developer of advanced optical solutions in challenging environments.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Guidestar, based in Longmont, Colo., develops adaptive optics for free space laser communications, high-energy laser weapons, atmospheric measuring and forecasting, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Guidestar will be integrated into General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) group to help with its focus on technologies for defense and space markets.

“We are excited to bring the Guidestar team on board to further enhance our diverse portfolio of laser technologies,” Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS, said in statement. “Guidestar’s expertise in adaptive optics has led to significant advancements in laser communications, high-energy laser technologies, ISR, and atmospheric measurement and forecasting. This acquisition expands our ability to design, build, test and deliver an extensive set of optical technologies to our customers.”

Forney told Defense Daily

in an email reply to questions that the acquisition will expand GA-EMS’ workforce in Colorado, where it has facilities in Boulder, Englewood and Centennial involved in space-related operations.