Facts on NASA's Deep Space Optical Communications

How It Works

Optical comms uses infrared lasers to transmit and receive data vs traditional radio frequencies. It offers major improvements.

Key Benefits

Optical can transmit 10-100X more data than radio. It needs less power and smaller antennas on spacecraft.

Testing Underway

Optical comms is being tested now between planes, ground stations and the ISS to prep for deep space.

Timeline

NASA aims to demo a laser link between the Moon and Earth during Artemis II in 2024. Full operation follows.

Partnerships 

NASA is working with commercial partners like SpaceX on optical communications technologies and services.

Future Applications

After the Moon, optical comms could enable high-definition video and more from Mars, Jupiter and beyond.

Communications

Optical comms will transform deep space exploration and discovery in our solar system and beyond.

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