LEO-to-ground laser link experimentation and optical ground station development in the Keraunos project

In recent years, space-based laser communications have become crucial in the industrial and commercial sectors due to their higher throughput compared to traditional RF communications. This is possible through free-space optical communications, which allow greater data transmission rates and discretion, and do not require frequency allocation. The Keraunos project, supported by the French Agency for Defense Innovation, focuses on advancing a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to ground optical link. This presentation covers the development and performance of an Optical Ground Station (OGS) with an 800 mm telescope designed for high data rates, low elevation angles, and atmospheric turbulence. Initial results from a commercial OCT on a LEO Cubesat by Unseenlabs validate the optical communication links with the OGS.