S-GEO Laser Communication System for Global Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser communication systems in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) do not meet the unique requirements of strategic nuclear forces, including global coverage, high availability, long lifetime, low probability of detection and interception, ability to operate without ground intervention, and resilience against challenging atmospheric environments and threats such as Van Allen radiation belts and solar storms.
Innovation Solution
A laser communication system in super-geosynchronous Earth orbit (S-GEO) that employs a constellation of satellites with a low probability of detection, using a combination of laser communications and hybrid RF services, adaptive signal processing, and radiation-hardened components to maintain communication through post-EMP atmospheric effects, with a higher orbit and smaller size to reduce detectability and increase resilience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellites are placed in geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO), then communication coverage and availability are improved, but detectability and trackability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) to super geosynchronous Earth orbit (S-GEO), moving satellites to a higher orbital dimension. This dimensional change in orbital altitude provides both global coverage and reduced detectability, as S-GEO satellites are smaller and harder to track while maintaining communication availability.
2Productivity
If laser communication systems are used, then data transmission rate and security are improved, but vulnerability to atmospheric effects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements hybrid RF/laser communication capabilities and adaptive signal processing before atmospheric disturbances occur. The system can switch between RF and laser modes and pre-adapt signals to anticipated atmospheric conditions, cushioning against the harmful effects of atmospheric interference on laser communications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adaptive signal processing that dynamically changes communication parameters (wavelength, power, modulation) in response to atmospheric conditions. This allows the laser communication system to maintain high data rates while compensating for atmospheric effects through real-time parameter adjustment.
3Reliability
If radiation-hardened components are used, then resilience to radiation threats is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into distinct functional modules (laser transmitter, detector, RF system, processing units) that can be independently radiation-hardened. This modular segmentation allows selective hardening of critical components without unnecessarily complexifying the entire system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The S-GEO laser communication system provides global coverage, high availability, and resilience against natural and manmade threats, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining undetectability and operational autonomy.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, by at least one laser on at least one first satellite, at least one first transmit signal
Implementation Method 2
receiving, by at least one detector on at least one first satellite, at least one first receive signal
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus for laser communications in super-geosynchronous Earth orbit are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the disclosed method involves transmitting, by at least one laser on at least one first satellite, at least one first transmit signal. The method further involves receiving, by at least one detector on at least one first satellite, at least one first receive signal. In one or more embodiments, at least one first satellite is in super-geosynchronous Earth orbit (S-GEO). In at least one embodiment, at least one first transmit signal and at least one first receive signal are laser signals and have a field of regard covering one hemisphere of the Earth.