Astrolight and ATMOS Space Cargo signed a memorandum of understanding to demonstrate an in-flight laser link between a re-entry vehicle and a satellite [1].
This partnership seeks to solve the communications blackout that typically occurs when a spacecraft re-enters the atmosphere. Establishing a stable optical link during this phase would allow for continuous data transmission and real-time monitoring of vehicles returning to Earth.
The agreement was reached in Warsaw, Poland [1]. Astrolight, a Lithuanian company specializing in space laser communications, will work with ATMOS Space Cargo to test the feasibility of this technology. The project aims to prove that laser-based systems can maintain a connection despite the extreme conditions and plasma interference associated with re-entry [1].
Traditional radio frequency communications often fail during the re-entry phase because of the ionized gas layer that surrounds the vehicle. Laser communications, or optical links, offer a potential alternative by using different frequencies to penetrate this barrier, providing a more reliable stream of information to orbiting satellites [1].
While the memorandum outlines the intent to collaborate, the specific timeline for the flight demonstration has not been disclosed. The two companies will focus on integrating the laser hardware into the re-entry vehicle and ensuring alignment with the satellite network during the high-speed descent [1].
“The project aims to prove that laser-based systems can maintain a connection despite the extreme conditions.”
Overcoming the re-entry blackout is a long-standing challenge in aerospace engineering. If successful, this demonstration would enable mission controllers to receive critical telemetry and health data in real-time during the most dangerous phase of a return flight, potentially increasing safety for both crewed and uncrewed missions.
