Laser communication in space is the use of free-space optical communication in outer space. Communication may be fully in space or in a ground-to-satellite or satellite-to-ground application. The main advantage of using laser communications over radio waves is increased bandwidth, enabling the transfer of more data in less time.
The Tesat-Spacecom GmbH & Co. KG (TESAT) from Backnang, Germany is an independently operating subsidiary of Airbus Defence and Space which develops, produces and tests communication payloads for international satellite manufacturers.