Join NASA to Discuss High-Rate Laser Comms Demo and Space Station Science
NASA is set to host a media teleconference on October 26th at 11 a.m. EDT, unveiling a groundbreaking laser communications system and new research exploring the intricate interactions between Earth’s weather and space. These exciting developments are part of NASA’s ongoing commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and technology aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The innovations, bound for the ISS on the upcoming SpaceX 29th commercial resupply services mission, will support Expedition 70 crew members and pave the way for future space exploration.
Audio of the media call will stream live at: https://www.nasa.gov/nasatv
Cutting-Edge Laser Communications:
Among the experiments heading to the ISS is NASA’s Integrated Laser Communications Relay Demonstration Low Earth Orbit User Modem and Amplifier Terminal (ILLUMA-T). Once installed on the station’s exterior, ILLUMA-T will test high data rate laser communications, utilizing invisible infrared light to transmit and receive information at faster rates than traditional radio frequency systems. Working in tandem with the Laser Communications Relay Demonstration in geosynchronous orbit, ILLUMA-T will establish NASA’s first two-way laser communications relay system, revolutionizing data transmission from space to Earth.
Exploring Atmospheric Gravity Waves:
Another intriguing experiment aboard the ISS is the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE). Equipped with an infrared imaging instrument, AWE will study atmospheric gravity waves—ripples in Earth’s atmosphere caused by disturbances in the air. By investigating the characteristics and movement of these waves, researchers aim to better understand their impact on space weather, which affects communication, navigation, and tracking systems. This knowledge will contribute to improved atmospheric understanding, weather prediction, and the mitigation of space weather effects.
Collaboration and Expertise:
NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Goddard Space Flight Center, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory are collaborating to manage the ILLUMA-T project. The Heliophysics Explorers Program, overseen by Goddard, is responsible for the AWE mission. These partnerships highlight NASA’s commitment to fostering collaboration among leading institutions to push the boundaries of space exploration and scientific discovery.
Importance of the International Space Station:
The International Space Station serves as a vital platform for advancing scientific knowledge in various disciplines, including Earth and space sciences, physics, and biology. By conducting cutting-edge research and technology demonstrations aboard the ISS, NASA is not only gaining valuable insights but also paving the way for future human and robotic exploration beyond low Earth orbit, including missions to the Moon and Mars.
NASA’s upcoming media teleconference offers an exciting opportunity to learn about the high-rate laser communications demo and space station science that will be conducted aboard the International Space Station. The innovative experiments, such as ILLUMA-T and AWE, represent significant advancements in data transmission and atmospheric research, respectively. By expanding our understanding of space and its interactions with Earth, NASA continues to drive progress in scientific knowledge and technology, ultimately benefiting people on our home planet and paving the way for future space exploration endeavors.
Learn more about the space station, including research and technology at:
Source: NASA
