Lunar optical wireless communication and navigation network for robotic and human exploration

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Exploration of the moon is a stepping stone for further research of our solar system, the galaxy and, ultimately, the universe. Many intriguing questions arise regarding the moon; what is the moon's composition and structure, what is the potential for settlement or colonization and how did our solar system evolve to name a few. New technologies are required in order to answer these questions. The main goal in our project is to develop technologies for optical wireless communication and navigation systems for use in robotic and in human exploration on the moon. These technologies facilitate the exploration of the moon surface by enabling placing scientific equipment at precise locations and subsequently transferring the acquired information at high data rates. The main advantages of optical technology in comparison with RF technology are: a) high data rate transmission, b) small size and weight of equipment, c) low power consumption, d) very high accuracy in measuring range and orientation and e) no contamination of the quiet electromagnetic (EM) environment on the dark side of the moon In this paper we present a mathematical model and an engineering implementation of a system that simultaneously communicates, and measures the location and orientation of a remote robot on the moon.

Original languageAmerican English
Title of host publicationFree-Space and Atmospheric Laser Communications XI
DOIs
StatePublished - 17 Oct 2011
EventFree-Space and Atmospheric Laser Communications XI - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: 24 Aug 201125 Aug 2011

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume8162

Conference

ConferenceFree-Space and Atmospheric Laser Communications XI
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period24/08/1125/08/11

Keywords

  • Laser communication
  • Lunar exploration
  • Optical wireless communication

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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