This new laser network promises ultra-fast space communications

The University of Western Australia, with its TeraNet project, has made a pivotal breakthrough in the field of space communications. Utilizing lasers to transmit data between space and Earth, they are heralding a dramatic increase in bandwidth, up to a thousand times faster than current technologies.


TeraNet is a network of optical ground stations, designed for high-speed space communications. This network recently successfully captured laser signals from the German satellite OSIRISv1, installed on the University of Stuttgart's Flying Laptop satellite. The team, led by Associate Professor Sascha Schediwy from the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) at the University of Western Australia, detected these signals using two of its ground stations.

Unlike the traditional radio signals used since the launch of Sputnik 1 nearly 70 years ago, lasers can transmit significantly more data as they operate at much higher frequencies. Laser communications can reach speeds of several thousand gigabits per second, representing a substantial advancement over current technologies.

Overcoming challenges with ingenuity

However, laser communications present challenges, notably vulnerability to weather conditions like clouds and rain. To address this issue, the TeraNet network comprises three ground stations distributed across Western Australia. In case of bad weather at one station, the satellite can transfer its data to another station located under clear skies.

Moreover, one of these stations is mounted on a specially designed Jeep truck for rapid deployment to sites requiring ultra-fast space communications. This capability is particularly useful in remote areas or during natural disasters, where traditional communication infrastructure might be damaged.

Considerable impact potential

The applications of this technology are vast. High-speed laser communications could revolutionize data transfer for Earth observation satellites, improve and secure military communication networks, and enhance remote operations in sectors such as autonomous mining or national disaster management.

The TeraNet project, supported by the Australian Government, the Government of Western Australia, and UWA, received $6.3 million in funding in 2023 as part of the Australian Space Agency's Moon to Mars Demonstrator mission grants program.

This funding supports the construction of TeraNet's three optical stations, with additional backing from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), which provides access to its satellites equipped with laser communications.

A vision for the future of space communications

Ultimately, TeraNet will support numerous international space missions, from low Earth orbit to the Moon. In addition to conventional optical communications, this network will utilize advanced technologies such as deep space communications, ultra-fast coherent communications, quantum-secured communications, and optical positioning and timing.

By establishing this network, Australia positions itself as a key player in global communication infrastructure, capable of meeting increasing data transfer demands from space.