'We are integrating this technology on demonstrations near Earth, at the Moon, and in deep space,' says a NASA representative.
. It’s a major relay system demonstration for the ISS, and one which could chart a path forward for how humans communicate not just in low-orbit, but on the lunar surface and beyond.
Although radio has long served as both piloted and unpiloted missions’ primary communications method, asnotes, laser communication arrays boast a number of benefits. From a purely logistical standpoint, the equipment is both cheaper and lighter-weight than radio devices. Meanwhile, lasers’ shorter wavelengths ensure far more information can be transferred at one time compared to radio waves.
Once launched aboard a forthcoming SpaceX commercial resupply services mission, NASA’s Integrated LCRD Low Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal will work alongside the agency’s launched in December 2021. ILLUMA-T will use infrared light to send and receive laser communications at a higher data rate than previously available. Once installed, these transmissions’ higher rates will allow for more videos and images to transmit back to Earth, all at around 1.
After installation, ILLUMA-T will first beam data to-and-from the LCRD satellite hovering 22,000 miles above Earth in geosynchronous orbit. Meanwhile, the LCRD will transmit data back to Earth at two stations in California and Hawaii—spots chosen for their comparatively low cloud cover, which often impedes laser transmissions.
“ILLUMA-T is not the first mission to test laser communications in space but brings NASA closer to operational infusion of the technology,”
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Hurricane Idalia's Florida approach seen from space in breathtaking video from NASA, Space Station: WATCHThe International Space Station flew over Hurricane Idalia on Tuesday as it churns toward the Gulf Coast of Florida.
Read more »
NASA to demonstrate laser communications from space stationNASA uses the International Space Station—a football field-sized spacecraft orbiting Earth—to learn more about living and working in space. For more than 20 years, the space station has provided a unique platform for investigation and research in areas like biology, technology, agriculture, and more. It serves as a home for astronauts conducting experiments, including advancing NASA's space communications capabilities.
Read more »
Broadband for Mars: Laser Boost for NASA’s Deep Space CommunicationsNASA is testing technologies in space and on the ground that could increase bandwidth to transmit more complex science data and even stream video from Mars. Set to launch this fall, NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) project will test how lasers could speed up data transmission far b
Read more »
The Moonshot Heard Round the WorldLessons from India’s frugal moon landing for any business on this earth.
Read more »
The last Super Blue Moon until 2037 rises tonight. Here's how to see itAugust gets not only a second full moon, but a rare Super Blue Moon.
Read more »
Super Blue Moon 2023 is tonight: Best times to see last Super Blue Moon until 2037We won’t just have a full moon lighting up the sky tonight.
Read more »