The VISION - Concept of Laser Crosslink Systems Using Nanosatellites in Formation Flying

The recent growth in spaceborne data volume can be handled using a laser-communication system that enables super-high-speed data transfers, faster than 1 Gbps, and provides size, weight, and power (SWaP) efficiencies at low costs. Compared to traditional radio frequency (RF) systems, the laser-communication systems have garnered attention by enhancing the SWaP efficiencies. In this study, we propose a novel system for space-to-space laser communication called very-high-speed inter-satellite link system using infrared optical terminal and nanosatellite (VISION). This study aims to establish and validate laser-crosslink systems and several space technologies using two 6U nanosatellites in formation flying. The payload is a laser-communication terminal (LCT) containing a deployable space telescope. The LCT shares beam paths for communication and pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) with a single aperture, providing feedback control for the PAT without steady-state beam pointing errors. The nanosatellites include a precise formation-flying guidance, navigation, and control system with an S-band RF crosslink and propulsion system. Particularly, each nanosatellite is equipped with a propulsion system and can change their inter-satellite ranges rapidly and accurately based on the mission operation scenarios. The proposed laser-crosslink systems are expected to contribute to the establishment of high-speed space-to-space network at low costs in the future.