Title :
Laser space communications
Author_Institution :
Florida Space Inst., USA
Abstract :
Summary form only given. Compared with conventional RF systems several significant advantages offered by laser communication (lasercom) systems in space applications that are simple consequences of the short wavelengths (high frequencies) associated with optical waves. Among these advantages are (i) smaller antenna (telescope), (ii) smaller size and weight of the components, (iii) power concentration in a very narrow beam, and (iv) the potential increase in modulation bandwidth. Applications that could benefit from lasercom are those that have platforms with limited weight and space, require very high data links, and/or involve deep space return links.
Keywords :
laser beam applications; optical links; space communication links; deep space return links; laser communication; laser space communications; lasercom systems; limited weight; modulation bandwidth; optical waves; power concentration; smaller antenna; smaller size; telescope; very narrow beam; Antenna accessories; Atmosphere; Bandwidth; Laser beams; Optical design; Optical devices; Optical modulation; Radio frequency; Telescopes; Temperature;
Conference_Titel :
Electronic-Enhanced Optics, Optical Sensing in Semiconductor Manufacturing, Electro-Optics in Space, Broadband Optical Networks, 2000. Digest of the LEOS Summer Topical Meetings
Conference_Location :
Aventura, FL, USA
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-6252-7
DOI :
10.1109/LEOSST.2000.869729
