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Laser communication from Thuringia ready for space

Researchers at the Fraunhofer IOF – Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering in Jena, together with TESAT and SPACEOPTIX, have developed a production-ready transmitting and receiving telescope for satellite-based laser communication. The system promises data rates of up to 100 Gbit/s and ranges of up to 80,000 km – ideal for secure communication even in remote regions.
Schematic representation of a laser communication network. The telescope from Jena is used for the Inter-Satellite Optical Link.

Schematic representation of a laser communication network. The telescope from Jena is used for the Inter-Satellite Optical Link. Image: Fraunhofer IOF

The telescope is part of TESAT's SCOT135 terminal and was specifically designed for use in medium and geostationary orbit. It combines a transmitting and receiving unit, is robust against environmental stresses, and is thermally optimized for high laser power.

The design comes from Fraunhofer IOF, while SPACEOPTIX in Isseroda handles the manufacturing. Five units have already been produced, with plans to produce up to 50 more annually. The industrial-scale production of complex space optics sets new standards in the "New Space" market.

Funded by the ESA program ScyLight, the project strengthens Europe's technological sovereignty in laser communication – an important step for critical infrastructures and future satellite networks.

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