Spacecraft Laser Link Pointing via Shared Optics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spacecraft data transmission systems using laser links for moving orbit observation missions face complexity in controlling the precise pointing of the laser transmission module, increasing the equipment load and control complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves acquiring a calibration image using a sensor array to estimate pointing errors of the laser line of sight, allowing for precise control of the laser transmission module by using the same optics as the observation instrument, thereby reducing the need for additional calibration hardware and simplifying the pointing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a laser transmission module is equipped on the spacecraft to transfer data rapidly to the ground, then data transmission speed is improved, but device complexity and control complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the laser transmission module with the observation instrument by locating the laser transmission module in the focal plane or secondary focal plane of the observation instrument optics. This integration allows the spacecraft to use the same optical system for both observation and laser transmission, reducing the need for separate optical paths and associated control mechanisms, thereby improving data transmission speed while limiting the increase in device complexity.
2Productivity
If a laser transmission module is equipped on the spacecraft to transfer data rapidly to the ground, then data transmission speed is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by using the observation instrument's optical system to serve both observation and laser transmission functions. The laser transmission module shares the optical path with the observation instrument, allowing a single optical system to perform multiple functions. This reduces the number of independent control systems needed, thereby improving data transmission speed while reducing control complexity.
3Device complexity
If the laser transmission module is located in the focal plane of the observation instrument, then equipment quantity is reduced, but pointing precision control becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms to maintain laser pointing precision despite the integrated configuration. By using the same optical system for both observation and laser transmission, the system can leverage calibration data and pointing information from the observation instrument to correct and maintain precise laser pointing. This feedback approach allows the laser transmission module to achieve accurate pointing control while sharing the optical system with the observation instrument.
Data Source
AI summary
A method (50) for image acquisition by a spacecraft (10) comprising an observation instrument (20) and a laser transmission module (30), the method includes: acquiring an image of a calibration area referred to as a calibration image, by the observation instrument (S50), obtaining reference data associated with the calibration area (S51), determining a pointing error of a laser line of sight by comparing the calibration image and the reference data (S52), controlling the pointing of the spacecraft by correcting the pointing error, in order to point the laser line of sight towards a laser reception module (S53), and transmitting data to the laser reception module by the laser transmission module (S54).