10/09/2024 – A stable laser link was established in summer 2024, constituting a world first in high-speed optical satellite communications between a nano-satellite in low orbit and a commercial optical ground station.
This experiment is the result of a collaboration between the French Defense Innovation Agency (AID), part of the French armament directorate (DGA), and two French New Space companies, Unseenlabs and Cailabs. Together, they succeeded in establishing a stable laser link over several minutes, demonstrating the tracking of the nano-satellite in low orbit by the optical ground station and the establishment of a closed-loop laser link.
The optical link offers several advantages over traditional radio links, including greater speed, enhanced discretion, and independence from radio spectrum coordination regulations. However, it can sometimes be disrupted by atmospheric turbulence, which KERAUNOS is tasked with mitigating to ensure optimal transmission quality.
KERAUNOS combines the expertise of Rennes-based companies Unseenlabs and Cailabs:
- Cailabs’ technology and photonics expertise have enabled the development of a ground receiver that circumvents these constraints while being sufficiently reliable and robust to be offered commercially.
- The modern and agile architecture of Unseenlabs’ nanosatellites enables the integration of the laser payload within the short timeframes demanded by the New Space pace. This laser can be used to transmit data to the Cailabs ground station.
This success makes it possible to use space-based laser communications on mobile, land-based, naval, and airborne platforms. This system could be integrated into the Ministry of Defense’s future satellite systems. The KERAUNOS project contributes to the objectives of the 2024-2030 Military Programming Law, which aims to strengthen France’s presence and capabilities in space.