Design and development of optical laser communication systems

Description

Since the 1990s the IAC has participated in the development of the first generation of experimental terminals for optical communications between satellites, housing the ground terminal test systems. The first of these terminals, called SILEX, has been used in the first European optical inter-satellite link (ARTEMIS, located in geostationary orbit, and SPOT IV in low orbit). Since 2001 the IAC has participated in optical link experiments with many satellites of the most important spatial agencies in the world: ARTEMIS, SMART-1, N-FIRE, TERRASAR-X, OICETS, LADEE, ISS ... These experiments have brought the optical terminals for use to geostationary orbits, to a state of sufficient maturity to transfer future developments to private industry. The developments of these technologies have a wide impact both in the study and observation of our planet and in space communications. In addition to the undoubted advantage of increased bandwidth, which allows to increase the flow of information and eliminate restrictive regulations in the use of radio frequencies, optical communications have other not insignificant advantages: confidentiality in transmissions and reduction of weight, volume and energy consumption of communications equipment of satellites that extend their life considerably. Currently, the IAC participates in the design of optical terminals for communications with deep space missions, in what constitutes the next frontier in this field of technology.

Related Technical facility
General view of the electronic design laboratory with several workbenches, electronic racks and cabinets for components and electronic parts
Electronic Design Laboratory

The laboratory has the necessary infrastructures for the development, integration and verification of electronic systems

Óscar Manuel
Tubio Araujo
Luis Fernando
Rodríguez Ramos
General view of one of the rooms (A) of the optical laboratory. Elongated laboratory with metal tables with holes and various optical and mechanical elements on top of them
Optics Laboratory

The Optics Laboratory is specialized in the realization of all type of optical measurements, alignment and integration of instruments, prototype tests and characterization of components and optical systems in general.

José Luís
Rasilla Piñeiro
Roberto
López López