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The role of lasers in modern life
Lasers and laser systems have become an essential part of modern life. The fields of their application are not limited to physics and medicine. Laser modules are quite often used at space stations and demonstrate good results that will be useful for space exploration. A team of researchers is developing a novel technology that will provide high-bandwidth communication between CubeSats and the Earth with the help of laser systems. This laser module technology enables the CubeSat to send a large amount of information with a second directional laser beam to keep the primary data beam on focus without using any huge antennae or fuel wasting.
Why CubeSats matter
The CubeSat is considered to be a force for scientific, commercial, military, and space progress due to its low cost and compact size, which is about a loaf of bread. CubeSats allow the collection of data about the weather or anti-missile defenses, and they can be sent up at the right moment instead of a single, huge satellite.
Challenges in CubeSat data transmission
CubeSats are not so good at data transmission because they are able to send the information that is equal to several images at a time. New laser systems allow transmitting a large amount of hyperspectral images quickly, which is equivalent to a terabyte of data transmission at a high rate.
Limitations of traditional radio systems
Even traditional radio systems are not efficient with this type of information, and CubeSats’ access is limited; that is why space engineers now consider the use of laser modules to be a faster means of communication. The advantages of such laser systems include better bandwidth, compact size, and high power efficiency.
Technical difficulties with CubeSats
The small size of CubeSats causes a lot of problems for lasers. The main problem is the need for a tilt of the entire satellite to aim the beam, which is unacceptable because this costs time, energy, and fuel that the probe cannot afford to waste.
The new laser-pointing technology
The new technology allows pointing the laser module more precisely and keeps it on target without needing to move the CubeSat or to use a high-powered laser system. This laser-pointing platform exploits a compact laser that is reflected in a small, standard, steerable MEMS mirror to direct it at the ground receiver.
Main advantages of the system
The main advantage of the laser system is that not only does it point the laser, but it also helps to keep it locked on the target. The system has to recalibrate the mirror in orbit using two different color lasers (the data and the calibration beams). The technology allows producing a low-power system with the narrow laser beams on this small platform that is 10 to 100 times smaller than it was before.