No atmosphere, no extra attenuation. Apply directly to the forehead.

Side note, although the article says the range of the device is classified, since it's visible light it's easy enough to make a guess. Effective range is most likely less than a mile, more than enough to oppress small drones out of the sky as cover for infantry. This will be everywhere once the system is is perfected for use in combat.

War drives innovation and advancement, always has, always will. The stagnation of the last half century is finally coming to an end.