Abstract
NASA/GSFC has played a leading role in the development of direct detection (DD) optical communications for space applications. Because optical technology promises to support Gbps data rate channels with modest telescope diameters of 20 to 30 cm, it is a prime candidate for satisfying emerging high data rate relay needs of NASA and the commercial communications satellite industry. Relevant NASA missions include the Earth Observation System (Eos) and Space Station Freedom, as well as the longer term "Mission to Planet Earth" and lunar exploration. In the commercial world, optical intersatellite links (ISLs) between geostationary satellites would enable a major expansion and improvement in communication services.

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