Optical communication for the future: research, Europe and the Fraunhofer IOF

Lasers enable data to be transmitted very quickly, securely and reliably. This form of optical communication is therefore a cornerstone of the internet of the future, which will need to transmit ever-increasing volumes of data in ever-shorter times. At the same time, control over one’s own infrastructure reduces economic and political dependencies.

To remain independent in the long term, the European Union has therefore embarked on its own path towards digital sovereignty. Using the example of laser and quantum communication, this article examines how Europe is shaping this path and what role the German research landscape – in particular the Fraunhofer IOF – plays in this. After all, it is only through local research that expertise can be developed and retained. The IOF in Jena is making an important contribution to this – particularly through its optical ground station, where laser communication is tested and further developed under real-world conditions. This insight shows how research gives rise to future technologies. And perhaps it will even inspire you to play a part in shaping this future yourself!