Here it is, tomorrow the module along with HW for data transmission leaves Earth. Data from space will then flow via laser beam towards Earth. The International Space Station ISS will soon test data transmission with Earth through a laser beam. Compared to radio transmission, the speed will increase up to 50 Mb/s. The third Dragon supply module from SpaceX, which launches tomorrow (Sunday, March 16th, weather permitting), in addition to supplies and scientific equipment, will also deliver to the International Space Station a device called Optical Payload for Lasercomm Science (OPALS). It will test data communication via laser beam instead of conventional radio connection. "This step is crucial for communication with space probes and crewed missions. Current instruments, whether measuring apparatus or cameras, can work with significantly larger volumes of data (videos, photographs...), but the problem is getting these volumes back to Earth," noted project manager Matt Abrahamson, adding: "Current technologies allow transmission speeds of 200 to 400 kb/s, while OPALS will communicate under ideal conditions at up to 50 Mb/s. In the future, we may reach speeds around gigabit." Once OPALS is on the ISS, it will be installed on the outer shell of the station using a robotic arm. Tests are planned for the following three months. Greenhousing cheers for SpaceX, so let's hope it works out tomorrow. red