Publication | Closed Access
European SILEX project and other advanced concepts for optical space communications
16
Citations
0
References
1991
Year
EngineeringSpace OpticOptical Wireless CommunicationSpace-based Optical NetworksOptical NetworksOptical PropertiesEuropean Space AgencyOptical CommunicationSpace CommunicationFree-space Optical NetworkPhotonicsLow EarthLaser DiodesSpace CommunicationsComputer EngineeringOptical Space CommunicationsOther Advanced ConceptsAerospace EngineeringOptical Fiber CommunicationEuropean Silex ProjectOptoelectronics
The European Space Agency (ESA) is developing an optical inter-orbit communication system enabling a link between a low earth orbiting (LEO) and a geostationary (GEO) spacecraft. The link allows the transmission of 50 Mbps between LEO and GEO in an experimental and pre-operational mode. The system uses laser diodes of typically 100 mW optical power at a wavelength of 830 nanometer. Direct intensity modulation is applied. Telescopes of 25 cm diameter are used on both terminals. The breadboard phase has been completed and the launch of both terminals is scheduled for 1994. Other concepts for optical space communication links using Nd:YAG lasers and heterodyne receive systems are outlined.