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Thuringian researchers are developing laser communication – a real competitor to Starlink!
Jena is researching cost-effective laser communication technologies for satellites, supported by ESA and Thuringian companies.
Thuringian researchers are developing laser communication – a real competitor to Starlink!
Satellite-based communications are a hot topic and are often associated with tech mogul Elon Musk and his Starlink system. But dependence on a single provider is considered problematic, especially in the context of geopolitical tensions such as the Ukraine conflict. In this context, the European Space Agency (ESA) started the program ScyLight launched a new research project to enable European companies and research institutions to develop their own systems and skills in satellite-based communications.
A promising step in this direction comes from researchers from Jena, who have developed an innovative laser terminal. This terminal plays a key role in the new system called Scot135 from the German company Tesat. This means that one of the most important factors for successful satellite communication can be mass-produced and offered cost-effectively in the future. Project manager Dr. Henrik von Lukowicz emphasizes the importance of production time for large quantities, which should ultimately increase production capacity.
The advantages of laser communication
Optical communication, particularly through lasers, could revolutionize the world of satellite communications. Conventional radio frequencies are increasingly reaching their limits - a situation that ESA is addressing in its ScyLight program. By using laser technology, it is possible to achieve significantly higher transmission rates and make data communication more secure. Laser communications enable “beaconless acquisition,” meaning it does not rely on crowded low orbits. This results in lighter and more energy efficient terminal solutions with better accuracy.
Optical links are less susceptible to interference or eavesdropping, making them preferable to saturated radio frequencies. At the same time, they can transmit multiples of data, which is essential for future services in the age of big data.
Production in Thuringia
The production of the laser terminal mentioned takes place in Thuringia at Spaceoptix, a spin-off of Fraunhofer IOF. This medium-sized company specializes in the development and production of metal-optical mirrors and systems, with applications in space travel, semiconductor technology and industry. In the coming years, production capacity will be increased to up to 50 systems per year in order to meet increasing demand. Five systems have already been manufactured.
Tesat's Scot135 system, whose components include the laser terminal, can achieve bandwidths of a sensational 100 Gbit/s over distances of up to 80,000 km. This paves the way for a new era of satellite communications that is not only more efficient but also more secure. According to TESAT, another key player in the satellite communications industry, more than half of all communications satellites in space are equipped with their equipment, underlining the importance of this sector.
European research is thus making an active contribution to independence and efficiency in satellite communication. These developments could have a decisive influence on the race for the best technologies in space.