Program Looks at Light for Satellite-Satellite Links

As part of the France 2030 technology development program, the LUCI system from Oledcomm will be used in a demonstration of inter-satellite optical communications. Selected by the French National Space Agency (CNES) as part of the France 2030 program, the Ultra-Compact Inter-Satellite Liaison (LUCI) system is an inter-satellite terminal capable of providing low-latency, low-power bidirectional links for next-generation satellite-communications (satcom) networks. The system uses laser beams for high-speed, wide-bandwidth links with minimal power consumption and less interference than RF/microwave communications. Growing numbers of satellite constellations are being used for Earth observation, exploration of space, military communications, and weather analysis (see figure).

Benjamin Azoulay, chief executive officer (CEO) of Oledcomm, explained: “With LUCI, we are developing a competitive inter-satellite optical solution suited to the constellations of the future, all while protecting European technical sovereignty. We are grateful to have the support of France 2030 and the CNES.” LUCI will employ optical inter-satellite links (OISLs) for security as well as performance since the technology supports communications anywhere on Earth and does not require the added steps and distance involved in going though terrestrial stations.

The LUCI project is being developed in two stages, with phase 1 through July 2026 defining the system requirements and consolidating technologies and phase 2 through 2028 finalizing the design of the optical communications system. The development efforts are aimed at delivering a first flight model in 2028.