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U.S. Space Force awards K2 Space $22.9 million to demonstrate satellite-to-satellite laser communications

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The U.S. Space Force awarded K2 Space a $22.9 million contract to test optical communications terminals that transmit data directly between satellites in orbit. The demonstration will assess laser-based crosslinks, a technology intended to support faster and more resilient space-based data networks.

Discovered 2026-08-01T13:45:34.179880-07:00 | 2026-08-01T13:45:34.179880-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

  • The contract puts $22.9 million behind an in-orbit demonstration of satellite-to-satellite laser communications, a key capability for future space-based data networks.
  • Optical crosslinks could enable faster, more resilient data transfer between spacecraft while reducing reliance on ground relay infrastructure.
  • The award signals continued Space Force investment in commercial space technologies with potential defense and constellation-level applications.

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SpaceNews.com
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1
First Seen
2026-08-01T13:45:34.179880-07:00
Latest Update
2026-08-01T13:45:34.179880-07:00
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