Optical satellite communications is a maturing technology to enable word-wide access to high throughput internet. In the past years a lot of effort has been taken to increase the applicability and the TRL of this technology. In collaboration with industry, TNO initiated several developments for space and ground technologies. Many of these technologies have already passed critical design review (CDR) and are in an advanced state. A missing piece of the puzzle is an in orbit demonstration (IOD), which proves the technologies to be working. This paper presents the plans for an IOD with CubeCAT on the NorSat-TD. As ground segment the TNO optical communications lab is equipped with an 80 cm diameter telescope. By an successful IOD, worldwide available internet at high throughput is yet one step closer.

Optical communications will complement radio frequency (RF) communications in the coming decades to enhance throughput, power efficiency and link security of satellite communication links. To enable optical communications technology for intersatellite links and (bi-directional) ground to satellite links, TNO develops a suite of technologies in collaboration with industry. Throughout these developments there is a particular aim for high levels of system integration, compactness and low recurring cost in order to meet the overall requirements related to market viability. TNO develops terminals with aperture sizes of 70 and 17 mm, coarse pointing assemblies and fast steering mirrors. This paper discusses the state of development of these different technologies and provides and outlook towards the future.