Safran DSI - IRIS Optical Ground Station for Space Laser Communications
IRIS optical ground stations are built to cater to a wide range of applications (LEO/GEO/Probes), including Earth observation, high throughput bi-directional telecommunications, feeder link, or deep space missions. The IRIS systems leverage the Cortex Lasercom, a globally recognized optical modem that supports various standards such as SDA, CCSDS, and HPE.
RECEIVING LASER COMMUNICATIONS
Built entirely in-house by Safran, the IRIS optical ground station stands at the forefront of innovation, boasting cutting-edge telescopes and optronic components tailored for seamless transmission and reception of laser communications.
This groundbreaking technology unlocks a realm of possibilities for every stakeholder in the space sector, thanks to higher, more secure space-to-ground data rates.
INTEGRATE THE CORTEX LASERCOM IN YOUR STATION
IRIS optical ground stations also integrate the Cortex Lasercom modem. This cutting-edge solution surpasses all expectations by offering communication speeds 10 to 100 times higher than traditional radio frequency communications. With its processing and decoding capabilities, the Cortex Lasercom can achieve a record bit rate of 10 Gigabits per second for Earth-to-space optical communications, a level unequalled anywhere in the world.
The Cortex Lasercom will be used in a number of cooperative projects between Safran, Airbus and CNES, and will equip future optical ground stations marketed by Safran. These Optical Ground Stations will allow communication with all future satellites that will carry laser communication capabilities with the Earth. Two demonstrations on Airbus and CNES programs took place in 2023, a world first: LASIN on the CO3D constellation of imaging satellites, and TELEO on the future BADR-8 telecommunications satellite.
Finally, a Cortex Lasercom HPE (High Photon Efficiency) model is also available for Deep Space applications.
IRIS Features
High Data Rate |
Up to 10 Gbps/second |
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Multi Applications & Missions |
Earth Observation, High Throughput bi-directional Telecommunication, Feeder link or Deep Space |
In-House Solution |
Compatible with Safran CORTEX and with SDA, CCSDS and HPE standards |
More Product Information

COMTRACK stands as the preferred choice for over 100 trusted telemetry tracking operators.
Its track record spans various applications, from military aircraft and helicopters to commercial aircraft and even launch vehicles. COMTRACK steps in where larger, space-consuming parabolic systems may not be the best fit.
With its compact, rugged design, this embedded phased array auto-tracking antenna excels at providing reliable telemetry reception across L, S, or C-bands, covering the entire sky up to 93 miles away. Its intelligent integration combines high-elevation reception with long-range capabilities, all within a protective radome.
Additionally, it enables dual-band installations to support systems operating in both current and future frequency ranges. When it comes to trust, simplicity, and performance, COMTRACK takes the lead.

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Versatile temperature range for extreme environments
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IEEE 1588 PTP
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Power over Ethernet
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P-Iris and DC-Iris lens control
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Monochrome (GT2450) and color (GT2450C) models
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GigE Vision interface with Power over Ethernet
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Screw mount RJ45 Ethernet connector for secure operation in industrial environments
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Supports cable lengths up to 100 meters (CAT-6 recommended)
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Trigger over Ethernet Action Commands allow for a single cable solution to reduce system costs
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Comprehensive I/O functionality for simplified system integration
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Popular C-Mount lens mount
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Easy camera mounting via standard M3 threads or optional tripod adapter
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Easy software integration with Allied Vision's Vimba Suite and compatibility to the most popular third party image-processing libraries.

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15.0 fps at full resolution
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Power over Ethernet option
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Angled-head and board level variants
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Video-iris lens control
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Monochrome (G-145B) and color (G-145C) models
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GigE Vision interface with Power over Ethernet option
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Screw mount RJ45 Ethernet connector for secure operation in industrial environments
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Supports cable lengths up to 100 meters (CAT-6 recommended)
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Comprehensive I/O functionality for simplified system integration
-
Popular C-Mount lens mount
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Easy camera mounting via standard M3 threads on top and bottom of housing or optional tripod adapter
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Easy software integration with Allied Vision's Vimba Suite and compatibility to the most popular third party image-processing libraries.

The D19-GT/-GTS Download Station ensures a secure and high-speed data download (via 40 Gbit Ethernet) from MDR or MDR-GT/-GTS storage media. Specifically designed for flight testing applications with demanding data rates and storage needs, the D19-GTS, when paired with MDR-GTS, incorporates advanced cybersecurity features like Data-At-Rest (DAR) protection and firmware updates. Configuration changes are facilitated through a Removable Secure Operational Disk (RSOD).

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CMOSIS/ams CMOS sensor
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Power over Ethernet option
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Angled head and board level variants
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Video-iris lens control
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Monochrome (G-223B) and color (G-223C) models
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GigE Vision interface with Power over Ethernet option
-
Screw mount RJ45 Ethernet connector for secure operation in industrial environments
-
Supports cable lengths up to 100 meters (CAT-6 recommended)
-
Trigger over Ethernet Action Commands allow for a single cable solution to reduce system costs
-
Easy camera mounting via standard M3 threads on top and bottom of housing or optional tripod adapter
-
Comprehensive I/O functionality for simplified system integration
-
Popular C-Mount lens mount
-
Easy software integration with Allied Vision's Vimba Suite and compatibility to the most popular third party image-processing libraries.
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Defect pixel masking feature with the Defect Mask Loader tool that allows you to manage a user defined defective pixel list to match your application and optimize the life cycle of the camera.

IRIS optical ground stations are built to cater to a wide range of applications (LEO/GEO/Probes), including Earth observation, high throughput bi-directional telecommunications, feeder link, or deep space missions. The IRIS systems leverage the Cortex Lasercom, a globally recognized optical modem that supports various standards such as SDA, CCSDS, and HPE.

Our patented miniaturized L/S/C Tri-Band Feed delivers top-notch performance and unmatched flexibility.
Equipped with a common L/S/C radiating front end, it’s complemented by a modular set of active RF modules, enabling simultaneous reception and tracking across various frequency bands. Its compact, lightweight design allows it to be mounted on any dishes ranging from 6 to 24 feet.
Available in single, dual, or tri-band configurations, this feed offers the best value for customers looking to meet current requirements while staying future-ready.
It’s also field-upgradable to add any missing bands with straightforward RF module additions, ensuring scalability while keeping costs in check.

eZ Processing is the solution for telemetry data processing, analysis and display (real time or playback). It allows the capture of the data either from a PCM signal or directly through data sent on Ethernet (IRIG 106 Chapter 10) by the receiver.
It performs the frame synchronization, Engineering Unit conversion, data display and storage, as well as data subset dissemination to dedicated analysis tools. It can accommodate multiple display stations, each having selectable parameters and displays. When used in a system with Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (formerly Safran Data Systems, Inc.) data acquisition units like the XMA or MDR, the software parameter database is automatically updated by eZ configuration software, reducing the set-up time and preventing all errors.

Safran DSI
Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI) is a leading provider of cutting-edge solutions designed to address the evolving challenges of national defense and advanced space missions. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, Safran DSI operates through specialized business units in Optronics, Space Solutions, Testing & Telemetry, Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). Safran DSI leverages its parent company's innovative technologies and global resources to deliver unparalleled solutions across air, land, sea, and space domains.
Testing & Telemetry BU provides complete end-to-end solutions from instrumentation, mission systems, on board recording and transmitting to base station for monitoring and controlling data. Our complete solutions are platform agnostic and are adaptable to the customer mission needs. Our instrumentation and telemetry turnkey solutions for mobile and stationary systems. This includes, but not limited to, data acquisition units (DAUs), on board recording, ground receiving, recording, and processing applications for fixed and rotary wing, manned and unmanned systems, eVTOL aircraft, as well as missile systems and space rockets/launchers. We offer comprehensive data management solutions for operational aircraft allowing for ISR, Search & Rescue, mission data loading & data transfer and pilot training & debriefing.
Contact Details
Safran Defense & Space, Inc.
3005 Business Park Drive, Norcross, GA 30071, USA
Phone: 770-753-4017
Test & Measurement
