Deep Space Optical Communications

This book captures a quarter century of research and development in deep space optical communications from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Additionally, it presents findings from other optical communications research groups from around the world for a full perspective. Readers are brought up to date with the latest developments in optical communications technology, as well as the state of the art in component and subsystem technologies, fundamental limitations, and approaches to develop and fully exploit new technologies.

The book explores the unique requirements and technologies for deep space optical communications, including:

• Technology overview; link and system design drivers
• Atmospheric transmission, propagation, and reception issues
• Flight and ground terminal architecture and subsystems
• Future prospects and applications, including navigational tracking and light science

This is the first book to specifically address deep space optical communications. With an increasing demand for data from planetary spacecraft and other sources, it is essential reading for all optical communications, telecommunications, and system engineers, as well as technical managers in the aerospace industry. It is also recommended for graduate students interested in deep space communications.

About the Editor

Hamid Hemmati, PhD, is a principal member of the technical staff and the Technical Group Supervisor of the JPL Optical Communications Group, which is developing optical communication technologies to and from spacecraft in Earth orbit and deep space. Dr. Hemmati has published more than 100 journal and conference papers, holds seven patents, and has received thirty NASA Certificates of Recognition.