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| Optics

Thuringian-made laser communication: ready for space

Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF) in Jena, in collaboration with TESAT and SPACEOPTIX, have developed a production-ready transmit-and-receive telescope for satellite-based laser communication. The system offers data rates of up to 100 Gbps and transmission ranges of up to 80,000 km, making it ideal for secure communication, even in remote regions.

The telescope is part of TESAT’s SCOT135 terminal and was specifically designed for deployment in medium and geostationary orbits. It combines both transmission and reception units, is highly resistant to environmental stress, and is thermally optimized for high-power laser use.

The design was developed by Fraunhofer IOF, with manufacturing handled by SPACEOPTIX in Isseroda. Five units have already been produced, with plans to scale up to 50 units annually. This industrial-scale production of complex space optics sets new standards in the rapidly growing “new space” market.

Supported by the ESA ScyLight program, the project strengthens Europe’s technological sovereignty in laser communication – a vital step for future satellite networks and critical infrastructure.

Schematic illustration of a laser communication network. The telescope developed in Jena is used for the inter-satellite optical link.

Schematic illustration of a laser communication network. The telescope developed in Jena is used for the inter-satellite optical link. Photo: Fraunhofer IOF

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