LLCD will demonstrate the technologies needed to transmit spacecraft data through optical links.

How LLCD Works: LLCD will be the first high-rate space laser communications system that can be operated over a range ten times larger than the near-Earth ranges that have been demonstrated to date. To be flown on the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE), it will demonstrate high-rate laser communications from lunar orbit to a ground terminal on the Earth. The main goal of LLCD is proving fundamental concepts of laser-based communications and transferring data at a rate of 622 megabits per second, which is about five times the current state-of-the-art from lunar distances.

Why Demonstrate Optical Comm: In order to make optical communications the norm, NASA needs to first prove that the concept is a viable option for missions. The way NASA proves the concept is through a real-life mission demonstration. After much testing and experiments, NASA greenlighted LLCD, an optical communications test payload to fly aboard the LADEE Spacecraft.

Partners: The project is being undertaken by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), MIT Lincoln Laboratory (MIT/LL), NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), and the European Space Agency.