NEC: Developed laser optical communication device: For JAXA satellite “LUCAS”
December 10, 2020
NEC:
We have developed an “optical communication device for satellites that realizes large-capacity data transmission in outer space using laser light” for the JAXA optical intersatellite communication system “LUCAS”.
Developed laser optical communication device:
The optical communication devices we have developed this time are “two types, one for geostationary satellites and one for earth observation satellites.”
Practical application of “ultra-long-distance optical communication of up to 40,000 km between geostationary satellites and earth observation satellites”.
Low power semiconductor laser light:
Low-power semiconductor laser light (wavelength 1.5 μm band) is widely used in submarine cables and LANs, and has excellent component availability.
High output in vacuum environment:
Developed a technology to stably amplify to high output in a vacuum environment,
Highly accurate capture and tracking:
With high accuracy. Developed technology to capture and track data transmission destination satellites,
Broadband signal demodulation:
In addition, we have developed a technology to demodulate a wideband signal from weak received light from a relatively moving communication partner.
The above optical communication device is installed.
Precision optics:
In particular, optical communication equipment is composed of precision optical components.
Violent vibrations and shocks at launch,
Withstands cosmic radiation received in orbit,
Also, against the heat generated by laser oscillation
We are also devising ways to create a sufficient heat exhaust environment.
Results of technological development:
The newly developed device has increased the transmission speed between satellites to 1.8 Gbps, which is more than 7 times faster than before.
(December 10, 2020): Press Release | NEC