14 Sep 2021 The recent increase in demanding satellite instrumentation such as hyperspectral imaging creates a demand for high bandwidth communications. To provide sufficient power and signal strength to ground stations, custom high-power laser diodes may be necessary for some space missions. These laser diodes need to survive the mechanical stresses involved in the launch as well as extreme temperature ranges from the chilling darkness behind the Earth to the extreme heat of the sun.
In a typical laser diode design, there are several layers of various metals and solder between the laser chip and the package. Each layer represents a potential thermal expansion mismatch, and when subjected to extreme temperature cycling tests, the metal matrix of the solder can break apart.
Through effective design, thermal stress between the layers can be minimised. This type of laser module can survive over 2000 temperature cycles and the high g-forces and vibration profiles associated with launch.
Further information https://www.lasercomponents.com/uk/news/long-lifetime-laser-diodes-for-space-2/ | 
