A flexible telecom satellite repeater based on microwave photonic technologies

Abstract

Future telecom satellite based on geo-stationary Earth orbit (GEO) will require advanced payloads in Kaband so as to receive, route and re-transmit hundreds of microwave channels over multiple antenna beams. We report on the proof-of-concept demonstration of a analogue repeater making use of microwave photonic technologies for supporting broadband, transparent, and flexible cross-connectivity. It has microwave input and output sections, and features a photonic core for LO distribution, frequency down-conversion, and cross-connection of RF channels. With benefits such as transparency to RF frequency, infinite RF isolation, mass and volume savings, such a microwave photonic cross-connect would compare favourably with microwave implementations, and based on optical MEMS switches could grow up to large port counts.

Analysis of hybrid PDM-4QAM-OFDM for inter-satellite/mechatronic telecommunication using FSO system

“…In space, communication systems/ mechatronic telecommunication systems, optical wireless communication (OWC) systems performed as a reliable and practical method for information trans-reception. OWC networks provide several benefits, including a wide channel bandwidth, fast connections, plenty of open frequencies spectrum, resistance to various interference and encrypted systems [2][3][4]. Due to these advantages, OWC connections are now being used for a wide range of practical purposes, including deep space communications, inter-satellite links, terrestrial links, fibre backhaul, mechatronic telecommunication, and military access [5,6].…”

Towards telecommunication payloads with photonic technologies

“…2 Ku/C or even baseband) and a new functionality such as the multifrequency conversion. This new concept allows the simultaneous conversion of the signal to different target bands using the same equipment [1]. A conceptual scheme of single and multi-frequency up/down conversion are reported in Fig.…”

“…In the last decade, Thales Alenia Space has put a lot of its research effort on Photonic Technologies for Space Application with the aim to offer the market satellite telecommunication systems better performance and lower costs [1] [2]. This research effort has been concentrated on several activities, some of them sponsored by ESA.…”

Space evaluation of optical modulators for microwave photonic on-board applications

“…Thanks to the effort to achieve higher modulation bandwidth (40 Gbit/s can currently be achieved using electro-optic modulators), lower driving voltage and smaller size as well, these components become suitable for space systems and, associated with other optical components, are expected to bring significant improvements in signal handling in satellite payloads [3].…”