As NASA embarks on the next era of human space exploration — returning to the Moon and venturing beyond — reliable, fast, and secure space-based communication systems will play a pivotal role in mission success. Laser communication, an emerging and transformative technology, offers unmatched speed and efficiency for connecting astronauts with Earth. However, this innovative approach faces unique challenges including atmospheric interference, extreme temperature shifts, radiation exposure, limited line of sight, and the demand for highly durable optical components in the harsh environment of space.
This 60-minute webinar from the editors of Tech Briefs will explore cutting-edge advancements in laser communication technology and innovative solutions that promise to overcome these obstacles. Attendees will discover how these breakthroughs will redefine the future of space communication and unlock new possibilities for deep space exploration. An audience Q&A session will follow the technical presentation.
Key topics include:
- The latest advancements in optical communications
- How to select the right optical components for laser communications
- Technology solutions to overcome optical communication challenges
- Free space optical communications principles
- Overview of some past optical communications demonstrations including a look at the deep space optical communications (DSOC) technology
- Optical and quantum communications use cases and technologies
- Business perspectives and roadmaps
Speakers:
Dr. Angel E. Velasco, Optical Engineer, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Dr. Angel E. Velasco is an Optical Engineer for the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where he has worked since 2017. He currently serves as the leader of operations for the ground laser transmitter (GLT), which is responsible for safely transmitting multi-kW of laser power to the Psyche spacecraft with microradian-level pointing accuracy. Angel previously served as the integration and test lead for the two optical ground stations of the Deep Space Optical Communication (DSOC), the first demonstration of free space optical communications technology beyond the moon with a flight laser transceiver aboard the Psyche spacecraft, GLT, and ground laser receiver. Prior to joining the JPL staff, he completed postdoctoral research at the organization and previously served as a Research Assistant in the Low Temperature Materials Laboratory at the University of California, Irvine. In July 2025, he traveled to Greece to support the joint European Space Agency (ESA)-NASA effort and to help the ESA-built ground laser transmitter team successfully close an optical link with the DSOC flight laser transceiver. Other roles supporting free space optical communication demonstrations include the Laser Communication Relay Demonstration, TeraByte InfraRed Delivery, and the upcoming Orion Artemis II Optical Communications System. Angel holds a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and Ph.D. in physics from the University of California, Irvine.
Cyrille Laborde, Product Line Manager - Optical and Quantum Communications, Thales Alenia Space
As the Product Line Manager (IPMA B) of Optical and Quantum Communications for Thales Alenia Space, Cyrille Laborde defines roadmaps, builds projects, and prepares commercial applications. He has 20 years of experience in earth observation domain at Thales Alenia Space, previously as Technical Manager of Infrared Missions and High-Resolution Earth Observation Missions. He joined the Telecom Business Line in 2018 to develop optical communications solutions and business.
Moderator:
Amanda Hosey, Editor, SAE Media Group
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