Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
group
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Om Acharya, Sophomore Vedant Tyagi
Lead Presenter's Name
Om Acharya
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Engineering
Faculty Mentor Name
Ebenezer P. Gnanamanickam
Abstract
The increasing complexity of Mars exploration missions necessitates high-bandwidth, low latency communication systems. Traditional radio frequency (RF) communication is constrained by bandwidth limitations and high power consumption, making laser-based optical communication a promising alternative. This study examines the feasibility of implementing laser communication for Mars orbital missions, emphasizing key technological components such as pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) systems, relay satellite networks, and optical amplification techniques. We analyze challenges such as beam alignment, spacecraft jitter, and atmospheric interference while exploring mitigation strategies, including adaptive optics and precise beam-steering mechanisms. Case studies of NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), ILLUMA-T, and Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) illustrate the viability of optical systems in deep-space missions. The findings suggest that laser communication can revolutionize Mars exploration by offering significantly higher data rates, enhanced security, and improved power efficiency, paving the way for future interplanetary communication networks.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
Advancing Laser Communication for Mars Orbital Missions
The increasing complexity of Mars exploration missions necessitates high-bandwidth, low latency communication systems. Traditional radio frequency (RF) communication is constrained by bandwidth limitations and high power consumption, making laser-based optical communication a promising alternative. This study examines the feasibility of implementing laser communication for Mars orbital missions, emphasizing key technological components such as pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) systems, relay satellite networks, and optical amplification techniques. We analyze challenges such as beam alignment, spacecraft jitter, and atmospheric interference while exploring mitigation strategies, including adaptive optics and precise beam-steering mechanisms. Case studies of NASA’s Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), ILLUMA-T, and Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) illustrate the viability of optical systems in deep-space missions. The findings suggest that laser communication can revolutionize Mars exploration by offering significantly higher data rates, enhanced security, and improved power efficiency, paving the way for future interplanetary communication networks.