Earth Makes History: First Laser Message Received from Deep Space at 16 Million Km
By- Priyanka Rai
Earth received laser communication from NASA's Psyche spacecraft at a record distance of 16 million kilometers, 40 times farther than Earth-moon distance
Deep Space Optical Communications aboard Psyche enabled this breakthrough, with 'first light' achieved during a successful communication link with Earth on November 14
DSOC's near-infrared photons took about 50 seconds to travel from Psyche to Earth during the test
Abi Biswas, DSOC project technologist, celebrates the successful detection of deep space laser photons and the ability to convey data
Psyche's primary mission is to explore the metallic asteroid Psyche, providing insights into planet formation and core dynamics
The two-year experiment involves sending and receiving laser signals as Psyche travels to its final destination, expected to reach the asteroid in 2029
NASA administrator Bill Nelson emphasizes Psyche's potential to provide new information about planet formation and test technology for future missions
The current deep space communication relies on radio signals, prompting NASA's push for laser-based communication, capable of transmitting information 10 to 100 times faster
Successful laser communication could revolutionize space communication, supporting faster data transmission for human and robot missions into deep space