Photonis is a leading brand of Exosens, specializing in advanced electro-optical technologies. Backed by over 85 years of group expertise, the brand builds on a recognized know-how in light detection and amplification, designed for the most demanding environments.
At the core of its expertise, Photonis develops advanced photodetection and low-light imaging technologies. The brand is particularly known for its innovations in night vision, delivering outstanding performance in terms of sensitivity, resolution, and reliability.
With decades of research and development, Photonis designs critical components capable of capturing, amplifying, and processing the faintest signals, leveraging advanced technologies in the field of photonics. These technologies push the boundaries of visual perception in extreme conditions.
Photonis stands out for its ability to develop high-precision technologies integrated into advanced systems, particularly for night vision applications. The brand is behind some of the most widely used and high-performing image intensifier tubes in the world.
With industrial and R&D operations across Europe and North America, Photonis continues to drive innovation through close collaboration with its partners, constantly advancing the standards of ultra-sensitive imaging.
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R&D and Innovation
Image Intensifier Tubes are opto-electronic vacuum devices that amplify extremely low levels of light to visible levels detectable by the human eye. Devices equipped with intensifiers—such as night vision goggles or weapon sights—enable detection, recognition, and unmatched identification in low-light environments. Advanced Image Intensifier Tube technology significantly enhances soldiers’ tactical situational awareness, agility, mobility, targeting capabilities, and the ability to operate vehicles during increasingly darker nights.
Thanks to their high resolution and superior signal-to-noise ratio, Photonis' 4G and 4G+ Image Intensifier Tubes reveal more detail in nighttime conditions and extend the effective range of modern night vision devices. The Auto-Gating function continuously adapts to dynamic lighting conditions—such as those encountered during military operations in desert or urban environments—improving image quality and mission effectiveness.
Photonis continues to innovate in night vision technology, notably with the successful launch of the ONYX intensifier tube, which delivers a natural black-and-white image (in contrast to the traditional green-yellow hue). Another major innovation is the iCMOS, which couples an Image Intensifier Tube with a CMOS sensor, transforming it into a digital solution. This breakthrough supports soldier modernization programs by providing real-time digital video images while consuming minimal power.
Photonis’ Research & Development, Engineering, and Program Management teams are dedicated to advancing current product lines and developing cutting-edge technologies and solutions. These efforts are vital to delivering the highest performance products to our customers.
Fields of expertise
Defense & Surveillance
In the defense, security, and surveillance sectors, Photonis offers a wide range of solutions designed for portable targeting systems, aiming equipment for armored vehicles, and integrated defense platforms.
In the field of night vision, Photonis is internationally recognized for its expertise in 4G and 4G+ image intensifier tubes—widely considered the highest-performing tubes in their class. This technology has become the gold standard for French and allied special forces, delivering unmatched image quality, reliability, and operational performance in the most demanding environments.
In digital vision, Photonis develops advanced UV-intensified cameras capable of detecting and visualizing signals in the 200–400 nm wavelength range. These are particularly effective in missile warning systems. Additionally, Photonis offers a complete portfolio of visible and near-infrared (NIR) camera cores that provide real-time imaging in both color and monochrome. These systems operate effectively from daylight conditions to starlight-level illumination, even under overcast skies, across the visible and NIR spectrum.
Industrial & Non-Destructive Testing
In the field of industrial inspection and non-destructive testing, Photonis offers advanced solutions specifically designed for high-precision applications such as semiconductor inspection. Our UV-intensified cameras are widely recognized for their ability to deliver high-resolution, highly accurate imaging—making them essential tools for detecting even the smallest defects in semiconductor components.
Photonis also addresses a critical need in the power and energy sector by offering effective solutions for Corona discharge detection in power grid infrastructure. This phenomenon, which can compromise the performance and safety of high-voltage equipment, is identified using a variety of techniques including acoustic, thermal (infrared), and ultraviolet detection. Leveraging our expertise in electro-optics and component integration, Photonis provides OEMs with efficient, plug-and-play solutions that meet the stringent sensitivity requirements for Corona discharge monitoring.
Furthermore, Photonis is committed to expanding its offering of infrared spectral solutions across a broad range of markets and applications. These include energy efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, and greenhouse gas detection. Our infrared sensors, cores, and cameras—developed and commercialized under the Xenics brand—deliver outstanding electro-optical performance and feature-rich functionalities to meet the most demanding industrial challenges.
Know-how
As a global manufacturer of electro-optic components for the detection and amplification of ions, electrons, and photons, Photonis is committed to delivering mission-critical technologies for the most demanding applications and customers.
Our exceptional know-how, combined with stringent technical standards and a diversified portfolio of activities, strengthens our global competitiveness and drives our continuous innovation.
Every day, Photonis' expert teams are dedicated to solving tomorrow’s technical challenges across key sectors, including Defense & Security, Life Sciences, and Industrial & Non-Destructive Testing.
Technologies
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Ultraviolet
Ultraviolet or UV, is a wavelength range below 400 nm or shorter than the visible wavelength. Explore Ultraviolet imaging technology across the full spectrum of UVA, UVB, and UVC
Visible
Explore the evolving world of visible technology that unlocks possibilities across various industries. Discover our expertise and solutions, shaping the future.
Ion & Electron
Discover technologies from both El-Mul and Photonis in the fields of high-performance ion, electron, and photon detection...
Applications
What's new in Photonis?
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Jan 14th 2026
Ultra-High Resolution Technology
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New Intensified iLumos RED 5G
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Milipol Paris 2025
Join Exosens at Milipol Paris 2025, the world’s leading event for homeland security and safety, taking place at Parc des Expositions Nord Villepinte in Paris, France.