SES Teams Up with Cailabs to Pioneer Next-Generation Laser Communication Technology
In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionize space communications, SES, a global leader in space solutions, has announced a partnership with France-based Cailabs to test cutting-edge optical ground stations. These stations will enable data transmission from space using laser beams instead of traditional radio waves, marking a significant leap forward in the field of optical communication. By leveraging this advanced technology, SES aims to deliver faster, more secure, and highly efficient data links while addressing the growing challenges posed by congestion in radio frequency bands.
The Promise of Optical Communication
Optical communication represents a transformative shift in how data is transmitted between satellites and Earth. Using light beams, this technology can achieve transmission speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, approximately 100 times faster than typical home internet connections. Unlike conventional radio signals, laser beams are inherently difficult to intercept or jam, making them an ideal choice for secure communications—especially for sensitive applications such as government operations and high-stakes business transactions.
One of the most significant challenges in implementing optical communication has been Earth’s atmosphere. Atmospheric turbulence causes laser beams to scatter and distort, much like how stars appear to twinkle when viewed from the ground. However, Cailabs has developed an innovative solution called Multi-Plane Light Conversion (MPLC) to overcome this obstacle. MPLC works similarly to adaptive glasses, continuously adjusting to atmospheric conditions to maintain a clear and stable laser signal. This breakthrough ensures that optical links remain robust and reliable, even under challenging environmental conditions.
Cailabs’ Proven Expertise in Optical Ground Stations
The optical ground stations developed by Cailabs, known as TILBA-OGS L10, are designed to handle two-way transmissions at speeds of up to 10 Gbps. These stations can be operated remotely, making them practical for widespread deployment across SES’s global network. According to Jean-François Morizur, CEO of Cailabs, “Our Optical Ground Station technology, already field-proven with a variety of satellites and terminals, offers top performance in mitigating atmospheric turbulence and maintaining resilient communications, while delivering features that are essential for secure communications in today’s most demanding environments.”
With these capabilities, the TILBA-OGS L10 stations will allow SES to begin testing space-to-ground optical links, paving the way for their integration into commercial services. This marks a pivotal step toward establishing a new standard in satellite communications.
Advantages Over Traditional Radio Waves
For decades, radio waves have been the backbone of space communications. However, the increasing number of satellites being launched has led to overcrowding in the radio spectrum, resulting in interference and limited bandwidth availability. Optical communication addresses these issues by utilizing light instead of radio waves, opening up an entirely new spectrum for data transmission.
This transition brings several critical advantages:
- Higher Bandwidth: Optical systems offer significantly greater capacity compared to traditional radio systems, enabling the transmission of vast amounts of data at unprecedented speeds.
- Enhanced Security: Laser beams are nearly impossible to intercept or jam, providing low probabilities of intercept (LPI), detection (LPD), and exploitation (LPE). These attributes make optical communication ideal for safeguarding sensitive information.
- Reduced Spectrum Congestion: By shifting away from crowded radio frequencies, optical communication alleviates the strain on existing infrastructure, ensuring smoother operations for both current and future satellite networks.
A Strategic Move for SES’s Global Network
SES recognizes the immense potential of optical communication in enhancing its global network of gateways. As Carmel Ortiz, SVP of MEO Programs at SES, explained, “Optical communication can provide much higher bandwidth, better data security, and less risk of spectrum congestion. The Cailabs Optical Ground Stations can play a central role in our global network of gateways with access to high-throughput infrastructure.”
By integrating optical ground stations into its operations, SES is positioning itself at the forefront of the next generation of space communications. This advancement not only aligns with SES’s commitment to innovation but also supports its mission to deliver unparalleled connectivity solutions worldwide.
The Future of Space Communications
The shift from radio waves to laser-based systems represents a monumental evolution in space communications. While radio waves have served as the foundation of satellite networks since the 1960s, the growing demand for faster, more secure, and congestion-free communication channels necessitates a change. Optical communication provides a viable path forward, offering unmatched speed, reliability, and security.
The collaboration between SES and Cailabs underscores the industry’s rapid progress in adopting optical technologies. With the TILBA-OGS L10 stations undergoing testing, the stage is set for broader implementation in the near future. This initiative not only strengthens SES’s leadership in the space solutions market but also contributes to the development of a more resilient and efficient global communication ecosystem.
A New Era of Connectivity
As humanity continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and satellite technology, partnerships like the one between SES and Cailabs are instrumental in driving progress. By embracing optical communication, SES is not only addressing current challenges but also laying the groundwork for a future where connectivity is faster, safer, and more sustainable.
In conclusion, the integration of Cailabs’ optical ground stations into SES’s network heralds a new era of space communications. With its ability to deliver higher bandwidth, superior security, and reduced congestion, optical communication is poised to become the cornerstone of tomorrow’s satellite infrastructure. As SES and Cailabs work together to refine and expand this technology, the possibilities for innovation in space solutions are virtually limitless.
About SES
At SES, we believe that space has the power to make a difference. That’s why we design space solutions that help governments protect, businesses grow, and people stay connected—no matter where they are. With integrated multi-orbit satellites and our global terrestrial network, we deliver resilient, seamless connectivity and the highest quality video content to those shaping what’s next. Following our Intelsat acquisition, we now offer more than 100 years of combined global industry leadership—backed by a track record of bringing innovation “firsts” to market. As a trusted partner to customers and the global space ecosystem, SES is driving impact that goes far beyond coverage. The company is headquartered in Luxembourg and listed on Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges (Ticker: SESG). Further information is available at: www.ses.com.
