The experimental lidar in space equipment (ELISE), one of NASDA's lidar programs, means the two-wavelength backscatter lidar. It is planned to be loaded onto the mission demonstration satellite (MDS)-2 planned to be launched early in 2001. One of the special features of ELISE is to be developed in short period using two models called the Basic Test Model and the demonstration model (DM). Through this program, we try to demonstrate some key devices, such as a lightweight laser diode (LD)-pumped high power LASER, a large diameter telescope an a photon counting detector using silicon avalanche photo diode, which are required for future spaceborn lidars. The experimental data of key devices in the space environment will be obtained. Furthermore, ELISE will observe clouds in the high altitude, multi-layered clouds, aerosols and the atmospheric density through one year. This observation will reveal the scientific value and the availability of spaceborn lidars. The collection of the information on clouds, aerosols and the density will be a great help to the design of future spaceborn lidars.