Optical space communication

Present situation worldwide and in Switzerland

Optical space communication is the transmission of data between satellites in space or to Earth using free-space optical connections. The lasers used operate in the near-infrared range. The carrier frequency of these data transmission systems – and hence the available transmission bandwidth – is several orders of magnitude higher than for radio frequency systems, unlocking wholly new bandwidth resources.

In Europe, testing of optical space communication with high data rates (> 1 gigabit/s) between satellites in low Earth orbit began in 2007. In 2016, the European Space Agency (ESA) launched the first satellite carrying an optical terminal for operational use in geostationary orbit. Beginning in 2019, other such satellites will go into operation as part of the European Data Relay Satellite (EDRS) programme: operating as relay stations, they will enable the optical data transmission from Earth observation satellites. Following the successful demonstration of this technology in space, international plans are currently being developed for commercial satellite constellations with optical links, geared toward mobile services with very high data rates and global coverage. These constellations feature optical data links between satellites and with ground stations. Given the steadily growing need for transmission capacity and the trend toward improved mobile services, in coming years optical space communication will keep developing at a fast pace across all segments. This encompasses systems (setup/operation of satellite networks), equipment and component development (optical terminals for satellites and ground stations), as well as the development of applications and services.

Implications for Switzerland

Optical space communication combines a number of complex technologies that are available in Switzerland. It stimulates innovative applications and furthers the industrial and the service sectors in the field of telecommunication. From the very beginning, Swiss research and industry have successfully brought their relevant skills to bear on developments in this field, establishing a good starting position. However, strengthening international competitiveness and developing marketable products requires continued and strong political commitment as well as long-term strategic planning.