The terminals have demonstrated multi-orbit, space-to-space satellite crosslink capabilities under demanding conditions such as jitter, extreme temperatures and the absence of atmosphere. They are designed to enable the secure transfer of high-bandwidth data across greater distances and orbits, including LEO, MEO and GEO.
“This contract moves our superior, next-generation long-haul laser communication terminals from the lab to orbit–a significant milestone not only for our team and this technology but for commercial space industry capabilities,” said Mary Clum, Executive Vice President of AV’s Space and Directed Energy Group.
“Since validating the technology earlier this year, we’ve been internally investing in our manufacturing and scaling production to meet the demand signals we’re hearing from our customers. We’re ready to deliver and ready to show what these terminals can do in orbit,” Clum added.
In March, AV successfully demonstrated a two-terminal, long-haul, multi-orbit laser communication system and confirmed its manufacturing readiness for deployment. The company described the achievement as a breakthrough with wide-ranging implications for commercial space sectors.
AV stated that its laser communication terminals are suitable for satellite bus providers, offering longer range, higher accuracy and improved reliability for free-space optical communications. The capability builds on earlier systems developed and deployed by the company, many of which remain operational in orbit.
