The first laser node of the European Data Relay System (EDRS) lifted off from Baikonur, Kazakhstan atop a Proton rocket on January 29, 2016, at 22:20 GMT.
Dubbed the ‘SpaceDataHighway,’ EDRS will uniquely provide near-real-time big data relay services using cutting-edge laser technology. It will dramatically improve access to time-critical data, aiding disaster response by emergency services and maritime surveillance.