In the near future, satellite networks will be an essential part of the upcoming Global Information Infrastructure (GII). These satellites will be interconnected by high bandwidth inter-satellite-links using lasercomm technology. Contraves Space has designed a family of lasercomm terminals for different satellite network topologies but based on common technology key elements: (1) Coherent Syncbit data transmission scheme for highest receiver sensitivity and, hence, best system efficiency. (2) Laser diode pumped solid state lasers for best reliability figures. (3) A combined coherent receiver-frontend and coherent tracking sensor for sun outage-free operation. As a first terminal the SROIL (Short-Range-Optical Inter-Satellite-Link-Terminal) was completed in 1997 and undergoes currently an extensive phase. Two SROIL terminals will be embarked in 1999 on two LEO spacecrafts and perform a full high data rate transmission demonstration in-orbit.
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