System level TVAC functional testing for the Integrated LCRD Low-Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal (ILLUMA-T) payload destined for the International Space Station

The Integrated LCRD Low-Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal (ILLUMA-T) payload will be launched to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2023. ILLUMA-T is an optical communications payload that will make the ISS the first space-based user to communicate with NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD). The system will support all-optical forward links up to 150 Mbps and return links up to 1 Gbps. The payload recently underwent system level Thermal VACuum (TVAC) functional testing at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. We present an overview of the payload’s TVAC functional tests and results.