Abstract
The European Data Relay System (EDRS) is currently implemented as the first operational laser based data relay service, creating a virtual ground station for low earth orbit earth observation missions. It is based on the Tesat Laser Communication Terminal (LCT), which was developed under contract from DLR for continuous communication service in LEO and GEO orbits. The paper details the structure, development and verification of the LCT, and describe the developments at Tesat for single photon heterodyne detection, that can be used as receiver for deep space communication links to enable communications even under severe background noise levels like near to sun communication links.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
