Replies to post #1165 on Airborne Wireless Network (ABWN)

[Volle Kraft]

Apparently NASA did a comparison between using LASER's or MASER's for communications. One thing that stands out to me is their finding that LASER's have the greater potential for higher data rates.

here's a statement from the NASA report.

"Some preliminary comparisons are made of microwave,
millimeter, and optical communication systems for
space communication from a spacecraft at Mars distances.
An attempt is made to be realistic with regard to technology.
Some discussion of thermal, quantum, and sky noise
is included, as well as some discussion and analyses of
microwave, millimeter wave, and optical technology; acquisition
and tracking; and some mission analysis. Based on
the considerations herein, it appears likely that in the radio
spectrum, the S-Band is the better place to operate. However,
it also appears likely that optical communication systems
have the greater potential for higher data rates-up to
about lo8 bps at Mars distances. Table 9 summarizes the
results . "