The UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has demonstrated the country’s first successful download of data from space using a deployable laser communications ground station.
During a 90-second satellite pass, says the defence organisation, “many gigabits” of data were downloaded from a LEO satellite. The receiving miniature optical ground station, the TERRA-M, was in the Mediterranean region.
Also known as free space optical communications, laser communications enables high-speed transmissions over long distances. This is ideal for military applications sending large volumes of information quickly.
Laser comms
Laser communications transmit information using very low power, non-visible light, explains the Dstl. As opposed to RF, light has a much shorter wavelength so can transmit more data per second. It is also very difficult for enemy sensors to detect or intercept.
The promise is high-speed transmissions over long distances.
Narrow beams also reduce the chance of overlap or interference with other networks and equipment. This means such laser comms will also allow the military to communicate in a congested electromagnetic environment.
Optical downlink
DStl says the laser demonstration could pave the way for a “transformational leap in faster and more secure communications”. For UK military forces, these can be for intelligence, surveillance or reconnaissance purposes.
“Laser communications will vastly improve the speed, size and security of data between our forces, whether they are in the air, on land, at sea or in space,” said the Dstl Chief Executive, Dr Paul Hollinshead. “This will greatly increase the security of our forces who will be able to convey critical information faster than their adversary.”
“Our collaborative partnerships with industry catalyse innovation and enable Defence to be an engine for growth, supporting jobs and creating commercial opportunities.”
In the picture above is the Archangel Lightworks TERRA-M optical station.
Satellites
For its part, the UK government highlighted the critical role of space for communications.
“Space is crucial for how our armed forces communicate, allowing our sailors, soldiers and aviators to conduct the operations which keep the UK and our allies safe,” said Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry.
“By developing laser communications we’re dramatically increasing how quickly and securely our satellites can talk to our bases on Earth, protecting these communications from interference and giving us an advantage over our adversaries.”
See also: DSTL toughens robotic navigational testing for CBR threat
