Quantum optical technologies for the satellite navigation of the future
The COMPASSO project is testing an iodine-based laser clock, a laser terminal and an optical frequency comb – all developed at DLR – under space conditions on the International Space Station (ISS). These components are planned to be attached to the Bartolomeo platform, which is mounted on the outside of the European Columbus research module.
For use in space, optical technologies must be particularly compact, robust and durable. Currently, the project is focused on further developing each component to meet these requirements. Once they have proven themselves on the ISS, they can be prepared for use in the European Galileo satellite navigation system.
Compact, highly stable laser optical clocks have the potential to significantly improve future satellite navigation systems such as Galileo. Additionally, optical connections between satellites and ground infrastructure – known as laser links – could greatly improve positioning accuracy on Earth while also reducing the complexity and size of ground-based infrastructure.
COMPASSO is one of the largest projects at DLR’s Galileo Competence Center, which was established in 2019. It is being conducted in close cooperation with industrial partners.
Link:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Galileo Competence Center
E-Mail contact-dlr@DLR.de
Credits: ©DLR
