A dual format communication modem development for the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) program

Abstract

The LCRD will demonstrate optical communications relay services between a geosynchronous satellite and Earth over an extended period, and thereby gain the knowledge and experience base that will enable NASA to design, procure, and operate cost-effective future optical communications systems and relay networks. LCRD is the next step in NASA eventually providing an optical communications service on the Next Generation Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS). LCRD will demonstrate some optical communications technologies, concepts of operations, and advanced networking technologies applicable to Deep Space missions. In this paper we describe the integrated dual format (PPM/DPSK) modem testbed development and performance.