EDRS-C completed its commissioning tests last week and is now ready to start operational service. The second node of the European Data Relay Satellite System (EDRS) strengthens the position of the world's first laser communication constellation and doubles its capacity. While currently the SpaceDataHighway mainly serves the European Copernicus programme, until 2030 a total of 15 satellites should use the very high bandwidth data connectivity.

The core technology of this constellation are the laser communication terminals that are enabling the essential high-speed data connections. These LCTs were developed and built by TESAT in cooperation with the German Space Administration DLR.

Full press release: Airbus News Room