The EST program aims to enhance mission effectiveness through a resilient, high-capacity optical communications solution. It focuses on supporting Department of Defense (DoD) space platforms operating mainly in beyond Low Earth Orbit (bLEO) environments at crosslink ranges from 10,000 to 80,000 kilometres while maintaining functionality in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
GA-EMS leveraged its expertise in Optical Communication Terminals (OCT) during Phase 1 to develop a scalable design. “We are excited to enter Phase 2 to advance our system design and begin the build and test of the OCT subsystems,” said Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS.
Phase 2 will involve lab demonstrations of OCT subsystems within a government-provided test bed. The phase will also include continued design and analysis activities to optimise system performance, with results presented during a Critical Design Review (CDR) at the conclusion of the period.
Gregg Burgess, vice president of GA-EMS Space Systems, noted: “The Phase 2 CDR will help inform the decision gate toward entering Phase 3 of the program, which will call for the assembly, test, and delivery of an integrated prototype OCT system for demonstration on a government-provided test bed.”
During Phase 1, completed in 2024, GA-EMS finalised the preliminary design of the payload support system, electrical hardware, laser terminal design, optical design, thermal control, and command and data handling. The company partnered with L3Harris for the modem subsystem and Advanced Space for performance modelling.
As prime contractor, GA-EMS aims to develop a robust Optical Communication Terminal for the Space Force, strengthening resilient space network connectivity. The successful completion of Phase 2 will pave the way for Phase 3, marking significant progress in national security space architectures.
