INDIA’S FIRST INDIGENOUS OPTICAL INTER-SATELLITE LINK (OISL)

News: Bengaluru-based Astrogate Labs unveiled India’s first indigenous OISL terminal at Bengaluru Space Expo.

What is OISL?

  • Uses laser-based Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC).
  • Enables direct satellite-to-satellite communication without routing data through ground stations.
  • Offers high speed, high bandwidth, low latency and secure communication.
  • Reduces dependence on conventional Radio Frequency (RF) links.

Key Technology

  • AstroLink Micro: 10 Gbps space-to-ground laser communication terminal.
  • PAT system: Pointing, Acquisition & Tracking for precise laser alignment.
  • Optical modems + gimbals: Maintain laser links between moving satellites.
  • Underlying technology has reached TRL-8.
  • Technology validated through work with ISRO and Australia’s TeraNet.

Significance

  • Builds indigenous optical communication capability for LEO constellations.
  • Satellite backhaul: High-throughput data transfer.
  • Defence: Secure, jam-resistant space communication.
  • Orbital computing: Enables high-speed data exchange between satellites.
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