Kepler Communications Inc. has entered into an agreement with TESAT-Spacecom and Airbus Defence and Space to develop a high bandwidth optical communications network in low Earth orbit (LEO) to address emerging opportunities such as the European Space Agency's (ESA) High Throughput Optical Network (HydRON) program. This marks a significant milestone toward the development of terabit-class optical networking in space. Led by Kepler, the companies are collaborating to deliver real-time optical communications to the market, leveraging the strengths of each entity to provide an innovative solution for key opportunities such as HydRON.

The project will demonstrate the world's first operational optical multi-orbit transport network, enhancing the capabilities of spaceborne and terrestrial networks. Under the agreement, Kepler is spearheading the effort, delivering expertise in spacecraft constellation design, manufacturing, and operation, building on the technologies within its commercial space segment and existing ground segment. TESAT is contributing expertise in space optical and network payload development, while Airbus is leveraging its expertise in optical communication by contributing operational and system engineering know-how as well as access to optical ground stations to the project.

Kepler is leveraging technology currently being developed for their LEO optical data relay network, The Kepler Network. The company launched its first two optical pathfinder satellites in late 2023 and expects its first full tranche of optical satellites to be launched and operational by 2025, providing services to both commercial and government partners. TESAT is a technology and market leader in laser communications for space.

In a dedicated space factory, a production line for Scalable Optical Terminals (SCOT) is established and delivers flight units of the SCOT series continuously. Since 2016, the company has had operational terminals in orbit, covering distances up to 45,000 km.