System Design Analysis of a Lightweight Laser Satellite Terminal.

摘要

This study investigated the technological feasibility of a man-portable satellite laser communications system. Areas of interest were: an end-to-end system analysis on the communications link; evaluation of atmospheric effects; and evaluation of semiconductor lasers as the laser source. A literature search revealed that satellite laser communication research is primarily directed at inter-satellite links. There have been some proposed systems for space-to-ground laser communications systems, but they all utilize large fixed ground stations. The focus of this research effort is directed at a small man-portable ground station capitalizing on recent advances in semiconductor laser devices. Baseline satellite communication systems were analyzed for both conventional radio frequency systems and a laser communication system. Modifications to the laser communications system were explored, and found to be feasible for some applications. Atmospheric effects were explored and are a major contributor to system degradation. Semiconductor laser sources were evaluated and are currently useful for some satellite laser communication applications. Laser communications, Satellite communications, Optical communications, Portable satellite terminals.