Recent Trends in Space Laser Communications for Small Satellites and Constellations

Free-space optical communications in space can realize broadband and large-capacity communications using smaller and lower-power-consumption onboard equipment. Recently, many mega-constellation systems have been planned and launched from various countries. Although the frequency spectra will soon be exhausted, optical communications have potentially wider bandwidths in the optical spectrum and are a viable alternative. Because optical communications do not have regulatory restrictions or licensing issues, this technology can revolutionize the space system architecture. This article describes the recent trends and future prospects of space laser communications.