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NASA Completely Transforms Laser Communication and Space Weather Research

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2023-10-23 14:38:12
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NASA is a pioneer in space research, once again attracting the attention of the world with fascinating insights. In a recent press release, NASA announced plans to test revolutionary laser communication systems and study the interaction between Earth and space weather.

A Great Leap in Space Communication: ILLUMA-T
The SpaceX 29 mission, scheduled for November 5th, will conduct research and technical experiments on the International Space Station (ISS), including integrated laser communication relay demonstrations of low Earth orbit user modems and amplifier terminals (ILLUMA-T). Once installed outside the space station, ILLUMA-T will test high-speed laser communication between the space station and NASA's laser communication relay demonstration in geosynchronous orbit.

Unlike traditional RF systems, this innovation uses invisible infrared light to achieve faster data transmission rates. This breakthrough marks an important milestone in the development of space communication and is expected to provide more efficient and fast data transmission for future missions.

Atmospheric Wave Experience (AWE)
Parallel to ILLUMA-T, another eye-catching experiment is being planned: the Atmospheric Wave Experiment (AWE). The AWE, also installed outside the International Space Station, will use infrared imaging instruments to measure the characteristics of atmospheric gravity waves. When the air is disturbed, these waves will pass through the Earth's atmosphere.

Studying these waves can provide a deeper understanding of the Earth's atmosphere, weather, and climate. It can also help develop methods to mitigate the impact of space weather, as it affects space-based and ground based communication, navigation, and tracking systems.

Meaningful cooperation
These projects are not just the result of NASA's work. This institution works closely with other well-known institutions. The ILLUMA-T project is managed by the Goddard Space Flight Center in collaboration with the Johnson Space Center and the Lincoln Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The Future of Space Research
With these advances, the International Space Station continues to strengthen its position as a world leading laboratory. The research conducted on ships not only benefits humans on Earth, but also lays the foundation for human and robot exploration of activities beyond low Earth orbit, including lunar and Mars missions.

These missions have strengthened NASA's reputation as a world leader in space research, paving the way for discoveries that may change our understanding of the universe.

Source: Laser Network

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