ESA backs laser comms, inter-satellite networking and on-orbit AI on SpaceX Transporter-16 rideshare
On March 30, 2026, ESA supported eight CubeSats and a specialized payload on SpaceX Transporter-16 to test high-throughput laser communication, inter-satellite networking and in-orbit AI processing. The mission aims to increase the speed, security and efficiency of space data transfer as orbital infrastructure and data volumes grow.