Interstellar Heliopause Probe Technology Reference Study - Communication at Large Distances
Publication date: 18 April 2007
Authors: M.L. van den Berg, A.E. Lyngvi, P. Falkner
Volume: SCI-A/2007/54/IHP
Issue: 1, revision 1
Page: 1-9
Year: 2007
Copyright: ESA
Low power deep space communication technology is an enabling technology for the Interstellar Heliopause Probe Technology Reference Study. Radio wave communication capable of performing this task exists today, but they are heavy and require significant electrical power. Optical communication technology on the other hand is still immature. This short document summarizes the results of a communication subsystem trade performed by Kayser-Threde, as part of the Interstellar Heliopause Probe system design study [Leipold05, Leipold06]. The objective was to identify and investigate optical and radio wave deep space communication systems capable of delivering the required performance of the Interstellar Heliopause Probe TRS.
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