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Journal of Radio Electronics Online scientific journal · eISSN 1684-1719
2017, № 10 · RADIO ELECTRONICS RELATED PROBLEMS

Optical Inter-Satellite Link in Comparison with RF case in CubeSat system

Z.S. Gibalina1,2, V.A. Fadeev1,2

1 Казанский национальный исследовательский технический университет им. А.Н. Туполева, Russia
2 Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N.Tupolev, Russia
Full text (PDF) UDC 621.391.8 EDN ZTLVUD

Abstract

The CubeSat is the format of small satellites that is frequently used for scientific purposes. However, communication is also in the focus of CubeSat research projects. Cooperative schemes for these satellites are required for more robustness and capacity. Hence, inter-satellite links (ISL) are necessary. This research project deals with implementation possibilities of optical ISL in the CubeSat format. The most common type of communication used in wireless systems is the radio frequency (RF) communication. However, nowadays space optical communication promises more benefits, first of all, higher data rate, security, lower power consumption and reduction of satellite mass. However, along with the advantages it also has disadvantages: the problem of pointing accuracy and maintenance of the link during movement. During this research the most famous satellite projects with optical communication links are considered for review of the main advantages and disadvantages of this type of communication in space. The typical link budgets for CubeSat are calculated for two cases: optical and RF for estimation of opportunities of ISL. Problems that links to accuracy and pointing are described as the factor of limitation of optical case. Results can be used for estimation of possibilities of current CubeSat equipment and for evaluation of opportunities of space optical communications. Moreover, described problems are the main topics for future research in this field of science.

  • optical communication
Аннотация (на русском)

Сравнение оптического и радиоканалов для систем CubeSat

В статье рассматриваются возможности реализации оптических межспутниковых линий (ISL) для формата спутников CubeSat. Наиболее распространенным типом связи, используемым в беспроводных системах, является радиочастотная (RF) связь. Однако в настоящее время космическая оптическая связь обещает больше преимуществ, в первую очередь, более высокую скорость передачи данных, безопасность, низкое энергопотребление и уменьшение массы спутника. Но для данного случая существуют и недостатки: проблема точечной точности и поддержания связи во время движения.

For citation

Gibalina Z.S., Fadeev V.A. Optical Inter-Satellite Link in Comparison with RF case in CubeSat system // Journal of Radio Electronics. – 2017. – No. 10.

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