NEC to Advance Optical Constellation Plans with New Demo Satellite Payload

NEC has completed the design of a technology demonstration satellite payload aimed at supporting Japan’s future optical communication satellite constellations, with launch targeted for fiscal year 2027.

The project focuses on validating key technologies needed for next-generation space networks, particularly optical inter-satellite links, high-speed onboard routing and high-capacity millimetre-wave communications. These capabilities are central to building large-scale constellations that can handle growing data demand while reducing interference compared to traditional radio-frequency links.

The in-orbit demonstration will test three core areas: radiation-hardened commercial optical transceivers for small satellites, high-performance routing using advanced processing hardware, and Q/V-band communications for high-throughput links between satellites and ground stations.

While not directly focused on direct-to-device services, the work underpins the broader evolution of satellite networks toward high-capacity, low-latency mesh architectures. These are increasingly seen as a foundational layer for future non-terrestrial networks, supporting everything from broadband backhaul to emerging D2D and 5G/6G-integrated services.

SOURCE: https://www.nec.com/en/press/202603/global_20260319_03.html