York Space Systems Achieves First-Ever LEO-LEO Laser Link Between Vendors for PWSA

DENVER, Jan. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- York Space Systems (York), the Denver-based aerospace company dedicated to the rapid deployment of complete space mission solutions, has successfully completed the first low Earth orbit (LEO) inter-vendor laser communication link for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). This groundbreaking achievement connected a Tranche 0 Transport satellite built by York with a Tranche 0 Tracking satellite built by SpaceX, representing a significant milestone in space-based communication.

This demonstration realizes another important step in Space Development Agency's (SDA) achieving its vision of an extensible and proliferated constellation built by multiple vendors to a common interface standard. Successfully closing this laser communication link between vendors and across two network layers and orbital inclinations validates SDA's decision to adopt a standardized Optical Communication Terminal (OCT) protocol to enhance interoperability. By enabling seamless communication across platforms, this approach ensures interoperability, enhances a competitive marketplace and fosters innovation across the entire space industry.

"This breakthrough reflects York's leadership in advancing interoperable technologies that ensure resilience and innovation in space networks," said Dirk Wallinger, CEO of York. "Achieving the first inter-vendor, inter-layer laser link demonstrates the tangible value of open standards and collaborative efforts in rapidly achieving an integrated space architecture. We are proud to support SDA's vision for an interconnected space architecture for the warfighters"

Laser communication links, which enable high-speed, secure data transmission, are an enabling capability for next-generation satellite networks. By successfully demonstrating the first LEO-to-LEO laser communication link between satellites from different vendors, York and SDA have taken a significant step toward realizing the vision of a unified, multi-vendor satellite communications network.

This operational milestone reaffirms York's role in leading the deployment of state of the art space technologies while enhancing space industry collaboration to push the boundaries of space innovation.

About York Space Systems
York Space Systems was founded on the principle of transforming spacecraft affordability and reliability. The Denver-based aerospace company is a beacon in the industry, enabling and spearheading next-generation space mission operations globally. Specializing in the swift production of mission-ready spacecraft platforms, York integrates commercial methodologies across a spectrum of government and commercial assignments. Their comprehensive solutions encompass spacecraft production, payload and system integration, launch and ground segment services, and mission operations. Harnessing York's technology suite ensures customers achieve rapid orbit deployments, providing them with a competitive edge. Their S-CLASS, LX-CLASS, and largest, M-CLASS platforms cater to a diverse set of missions ranging from ISR, remote proximity, weather, to communications. York's platforms are compatible with a broad spectrum of launch vehicles and ground segment providers. Their cloud-based mission tasking paired with an autonomous operations center provides an unparalleled, cost-effective solution for real-time data acquisition and analysis. Learn more at http://www.YorkSpaceSystems.com.

SOURCE York Space Systems