Key Challenges and Results in the Design of Cubesat Laser Terminals, Optical Heads and Coarse Pointing Assemblies

M. Dresscher, J. D. Human, G. Witvoet, N. Van Der Heiden, R. Den Breeje, S. Kuiper, E. C. Fritz, C. W. Korevaar, R. Saathof, More Authors

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The anticipated capacity benefit of optical satellite communications has triggered a cascade of technology developments. In this paper, we present three such technologies, namely; i). A cube satellite laser terminal (CubeCAT), ii). A lower Earth orbit satellite optical head (LEOCAT) and iii). A calibration and verification test bench for coarse pointing assemblies, named pointing test bench (PTB). For these technologies, pointing stability and accuracy are central challenges. For i) and ii), we discuss anticipated effects of the thermal and mechanical disturbances that threaten the optical alignment of the system. We furthermore explain the mitigation of these effects through the system design so that a high optical performance can be maintained. For iii), we discuss the mechanical design challenges, in combination with modelling and calibration procedures for the system. Effective dealing with the three of them in turn enables highly accurate mirror orientation and rotation. Design specifications and current status are presented for each system.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2019 IEEE International Conference on Space Optical Systems and Applications, ICSOS 2019
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
ISBN (Electronic)9781728105000
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
Externally publishedYes
Event2019 IEEE International Conference on Space Optical Systems and Applications, ICSOS 2019 - Portland, United States
Duration: 14 Oct 201916 Oct 2019

Publication series

Name2019 IEEE International Conference on Space Optical Systems and Applications, ICSOS 2019

Conference

Conference2019 IEEE International Conference on Space Optical Systems and Applications, ICSOS 2019
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPortland
Period14/10/1916/10/19

Keywords

  • coarse-pointing assembly
  • cubesat
  • Free space optical communications
  • ground-support equipment
  • laser communication terminal
  • laser satellite communications
  • low earth orbit
  • optical head
  • satellite
  • smallsat

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