The Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) is a NASA mission designed to test and validate laser-based communications technology, which promises to significantly enhance the speed and capacity of communications between Earth and spacecraft. Launched in December 2021 aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket, LCRD aims to demonstrate how laser communications can transmit data at a higher rate than traditional radio frequency systems currently in use. This technology, also known as optical communications, involves the use of infrared light to deliver data with greater efficiency and bandwidth. The mission’s objectives include testing the endurance and reliability of laser communications over long periods and in various space conditions. LCRD’s success could revolutionize how data is transmitted in future space missions, supporting more advanced science instruments and providing astronauts with better communication tools.
NASA successfully completed the first two-way laser communication link between the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) and the Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modem…
NASA’s ILLUMA-T payload is set to launch to the ISS, aiming to demonstrate the potential of laser communications for faster data transmission. This collaboration with…
NASA will soon deploy ILLUMA-T to the International Space Station, aiming to enhance laser communications in space. Working with the previously launched LCRD, this system…
NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) and a NASA-U.S. Naval Research Laboratory space weather payload to study the Sun’s radiation lifted off at 5:19 a.m….
LCRD Is On Its Way! The Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) mission has successfully launched, completed two Centaur engine burns, and is on its way!…
The December 6 launch of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V 551 rocket carrying the Department of Defense’s (DOD) Space Test Program 3 (STP-3)…
Our televisions and computer screens display news, movies, and shows in high-definition, allowing viewers a clear and vibrant experience. Fiber optic connections send laser light…
NASA launches satellites, rovers, and orbiters to investigate humanity’s place in the Milky Way. When these missions reach their destinations, their science instruments capture images,…
The December 5 launch of a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V 551 rocket carrying the Department of Defense’s (DOD) Space Test Program 3 (STP-3)…
Update: The December 5 launch was scrubbed and rescheduled for December 6. Update: The December 6 launch was scrubbed and rescheduled for December 7. NASA…
NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) will use laser communications systems to transmit data from space to Earth. Below are six things you need to…
NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) is gearing up for launch this fall, no earlier than November 22. The payload arrived in Florida in May,…
Launching this summer, NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) will showcase the dynamic powers of laser communications technologies. With NASA’s ever-increasing human and robotic presence…