Europe builds a laser ground station in Greenland to protect satellite links
Astrolight’s technology offers rapid, secure transfers that resist electronic jamming across high-latitude orbits.
Europe is building a laser-based ground station in Greenland to secure satellite links as Russian jamming intensifies. ESA and Denmark chose Kangerlussuaq for its clear skies and direct access to polar-orbit traffic.
The optical system uses Astrolight’s technology to transmit data markedly faster than radio signals. Narrow laser beams resist interference, allowing vast imaging sets to reach analysts with far fewer disruptions.
Developers expect terabytes to be downloaded in under a minute, reducing reliance on vulnerable Arctic radio sites. European officials say the upgrade strengthens autonomy as undersea cables and navigation systems face repeated targeting from countries such as Russia.
The Danish station will support defence monitoring, climate science and search-and-rescue operations across high latitudes. Work is underway, with completion planned for 2026 and ambitions for a wider global laser network.
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