Compact Optical Method for Long-range, Inexpensive Network Communication (COMLINC)

COMLINC uses customized optics and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) to provide a dramatically lower SWaP-C system than the optical communications State of the Art. The first two years produced a low-cost optical ground station that can track a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite and multiple prototype LED transmitters. One of the transmitters was launched into LEO during year 2 and will attempt to demonstrate a LEO downlink (increasing technology to TRL 6). During year 3, this project will further develop COMLINC technology by 1) developing uplink capability for COMLINC and 2) performing a trade study on potential applications of COMLINC with associated unit testing focusing on lunar surface conditions (e.g., dust, range, lighting, technology alternatives, etc.)

By adding uplink capability, COMLINC enables true bi‑directional optical communication at dramatically lower SWAP‑C than current state‑of‑the‑art optical systems. This approach can deliver data rates comparable to, or exceeding, traditional RF communications while avoiding RF‑spectrum regulatory constraints that significantly slow mission readiness timelines. Through targeted trade studies and unit testing under lunar‑relevant conditions, COMLINC can better define its operational envelope and mature into a low‑SWAP‑C architecture suitable for diverse lunar applications. Potential uses include communication among fixed lunar surface assets, mobile systems, and/or links between the lunar surface and Low Lunar Orbit (LLO).

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.