SES Demonstrates Bi-Directional Ground-to-Space Optical Link
The meoSphere Pathfinder 1 mission sent video messages from CEO Adel Al-Saleh between Rennes, France and an SES payload on K2's GRAVITAS mission.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Space
SES, working with space technology partners, demonstrated a bi-directional optical communications link between ground and space through its meoSphere Pathfinder 1 mission. The link carried video messages from CEO Adel Al-Saleh between Cailabs' optical ground station in Rennes, France and an SES payload flying on K2's GRAVITAS mission.
Why it matters
The demonstration points toward meoSphere, which SES expects to enable more flexible, resilient and secure data transport. Testing continues to extend link duration and increase link speed and performance, with future Pathfinder missions informed by the results.
The demonstration used a Mynaric CONDOR optical terminal on K2's Mega-class satellite platform, with the ground end at Cailabs' station in Rennes, France. Link duration and speed have not been quantified in the announcement and remain under test.
The players
SES
SES is a satellite operator headquartered in Luxembourg that designs, develops and operates satellite communications networks.
Thales Alenia Space
Thales Alenia Space is a European satellite manufacturer and space systems company that supported assembly, integration, testing and operations for the mission.
Adel Al-Saleh
Adel Al-Saleh is the chief executive officer of SES, whose video message was transmitted over the optical link.
The details
SES designed, developed and operated the optical mission and its automation software, with Thales Alenia Space supporting assembly, integration, testing and operations. The video messages were sent over a bidirectional optical link between the Rennes ground station and the GRAVITAS payload.
Timeline
November 4, 2026: SES issued the press release announcing the successful optical link demonstration.
Roadmap
The optical link is a test step for SES's meoSphere program, which the company says will provide more flexible, resilient and secure data transport. The Pathfinder 1 mission is the proving ground for that capability before broader deployment.
Improved optical data links could make satellite-based data transport more resilient and secure for users who depend on it. Commercial availability timelines have not been announced.
The takeaway
Laser-based satellite communication is moving from concept toward operational testing, with SES using its Pathfinder missions to refine link speed and duration before wider rollout. Readers following satellite data networks should watch for further test results from the program.
Further reading
For more on satellite technology and orbital developments, explore our Space coverage.
