Laser communication for faster and more secure satellite connections

Laser satellite communication is already moving from research to real-world use. TNO has proven the technology with SmallCAT, which established a laser link between a satellite and an optical ground station in The Hague. In the UltraAir project with Airbus, TNO also demonstrated a secure optical link between an aircraft and a geostationary satellite. Project AirCAT builds on these milestones and brings the technology closer to future industrial applications.

The demand for data is growing rapidly, while current radio-frequency systems are increasingly reaching their limits in terms of capacity, resilience and security. Laser satellite communication uses narrow optical beams, enabling faster and more efficient data transfer that is harder to intercept or jam. For Europe, this technology is also strategically important: it can help reduce dependency on non-European communication infrastructure and strengthen secure, sovereign connectivity.

Laser satellite communication uses invisible light signals to transmit data across long distances. These optical links can connect satellites with ground stations, satellites with other satellites, and aircraft or UAVs with satellite networks. Because the beams are highly focused, large volumes of data can be exchanged with great precision and a higher level of security than conventional radio-frequency links.

Laser satellite communication can support a wide range of future applications, from secure defence communication and high-speed in-flight connectivity to earth observation, civil communication networks and mobile platforms such as UAVs (drones). It also plays a role in the development of future quantum networks, where space-based optical links may help connect quantum systems over long distances.

TNO combines deep expertise in optics, optomechatronics, photonics, control technology, satellite communication and quantum technology. We develop the critical building blocks behind laser satellite communication, including optical terminals, precision pointing and tracking systems, mirrors, photonic components and optical ground station technology. TNO also has a proven track record in bringing complex technologies from research to real-world demonstrations, such as the successful optical aircraft-to-satellite link with Airbus and the satellite-to-ground laser link using a compact Dutch satellite instrument.

TNO acts as an independent orchestrator between research, industry, government and end users. We bring together technology developers, space companies, defence stakeholders, aviation partners, telecom players and quantum specialists to accelerate the development and application of secure optical communication. Whether the goal is a demonstrator, industrialisation, system integration or future network architecture, TNO helps partners turn advanced laser communication technology into scalable solutions. Contact us.

The Dutch Long-Term Space Agenda identifies space as strategically important for safety, climate, science, satellite data, economic growth and international cooperation. Laser satellite communication directly supports several of these missions: it strengthens secure connectivity, contributes to technological sovereignty, creates opportunities for Dutch high-tech companies and builds on the Netherlands’ strong position in advanced space instruments.