NASA | LCRD: From Vision to Reality

NASA is advancing into high-speed data delivery using infrared lasers, which can transmit more information faster than radio frequencies. The Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration (LLCD) is a key step in developing a satellite-to-ground optical network, capable of supporting deep space and near-Earth missions. The project involves leveraging commercial optical components and existing ground facilities. NASA's collaboration with MIT Lincoln Lab and other partners aims to establish a cost-effective optical communications network. This initiative will enable unprecedented data transmission for future space missions, evolving into a global network offering optical services.

What are the expected outcomes of the LCD's real-time optical communications relay capability?

In what ways will the new optical communications network support future space missions?

How does NASA plan to meet the evolving data handling and transmission needs?