DLR Researchers Set World Record in Free-space Optical Communications

Researchers at the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR) have set a new record in data transmission using laser: 1.72 terabits per second across a distance of 10.45 kilometres, which is equivalent to the transmission of 45 DVDs per second. This means that large parts of the still under-served rural areas in Western Europe could be supplied with broadband Internet services.Along a route between Oberpfaffenhofen and Hochstadt, they achieved a world first when they succeeded in transmitting 1.72 terabits per second (Tbit/s) across a distance of three kilometres in free space.

Fibre-optic links and other terrestrial systems offer high transmission rates, but are available predominantly in densely populated regions. Outside of the metropolitan centres a broadband supply via geostationary satellites is possible.

The satellites should be connected to the terrestrial Internet via a laser link.