Daily Current Affairs : 25-November-2023

NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, currently on its way to a metal-rich asteroid, is not only exploring distant celestial bodies but also pioneering a groundbreaking technology called Deep Space Optical Communication (DSOC). This innovative approach utilizes near-infrared laser signals, a departure from traditional radio wave communication, to achieve unprecedented advancements in space communication.

Understanding DSOC:

Deep Space Optical Communication involves the use of near-infrared laser signals for communication in space. In contrast to conventional radio wave communication, DSOC offers significantly higher bandwidths. This results in data rates that are at least ten times faster than those achievable with current radio systems. The key to this leap in performance lies in encoding data in photons at near-infrared wavelengths, enabling the transmission of more data in a given amount of time compared to radio waves.

Operational Mechanism:

DSOC employs near-infrared lasers for encoding and decoding data between a deep-space probe and Earth. The technology ensures precise pointing through advanced features such as near-infrared lasers, isolation from spacecraft vibrations, and adaptive systems that compensate for changing positions. This combination of elements makes DSOC a revolutionary approach for deep space missions, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of communication over vast distances.

Significance for Deep Space Exploration:

The significance of DSOC extends beyond its technological novelty. This advancement is pivotal for communicating with spacecraft undertaking long-distance missions, such as human exploration of Mars. The benefits include the potential for higher resolution images, increased data transfer rates, and the exciting prospect of streaming video from these far-reaching destinations. In essence, DSOC opens up new possibilities and elevates the quality of information exchange in the realm of space exploration.

Important Points:
  • Understanding DSOC:
    • DSOC employs near-infrared laser signals instead of traditional radio waves.
    • Offers significantly higher bandwidths compared to radio wave communication.
    • Achieves data rates at least ten times faster than current radio systems.
    • Data is encoded in photons at near-infrared wavelengths for efficient transmission.
  • Operational Mechanism:
    • DSOC utilizes near-infrared lasers for encoding and decoding data.
    • Ensures precise pointing through advanced features, including near-infrared lasers, isolation from vibrations, and adaptive systems.
    • Revolutionary approach for deep space missions, enhancing efficiency and reliability.
  • Significance for Deep Space Exploration:
    • Crucial for communicating with spacecraft on long-distance missions, such as human exploration of Mars.
    • Offers benefits such as higher resolution images, increased data transfer rates, and potential for streaming video.
    • Represents a milestone in space exploration, promising improved communication capabilities for future deep space missions.
Why In News

NASA’s Psyche spacecraft, en route to a metal-rich asteroid, is pioneering Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC) using near-infrared laser signals for high-bandwidth communication, marking a significant leap in interplanetary data transmission capabilities.

MCQs about The Breakthrough of Deep Space Optical Communication (DSOC)

  1. What is the key feature that sets Deep Space Optical Communication (DSOC) apart from traditional radio wave communication?
    A. Higher spacecraft speed
    B. Use of near-infrared laser signals
    C. Increased payload capacity
    D. Longer mission duration
    Correct Answer: B. Use of near-infrared laser signals
    Explanation: DSOC utilizes near-infrared laser signals instead of traditional radio waves, enabling higher bandwidths and data rates.
  2. How does DSOC achieve precise pointing during deep space communication?
    A. Spacecraft vibrations
    B. Adaptive systems
    C. Radio wave technology
    D. Increased mission distance
    Correct Answer: B. Adaptive systems
    Explanation: DSOC achieves precise pointing through the use of adaptive systems, near-infrared lasers, and isolation from spacecraft vibrations.
  3. What is the significance of DSOC for deep space exploration missions?
    A. Decreased data transfer rates
    B. Limited communication range
    C. Higher resolution images
    D. Reduced spacecraft efficiency
    Correct Answer: C. Higher resolution images
    Explanation: DSOC offers benefits such as higher resolution images, increased data transfer rates, and the potential for streaming video during deep space exploration.
  4. In which wavelength does DSOC encode data for communication between a deep-space probe and Earth?
    A. Visible light
    B. Ultraviolet
    C. Near-infrared
    D. Infrared
    Correct Answer: C. Near-infrared
    Explanation: DSOC encodes data in photons at near-infrared wavelengths, allowing for efficient communication between the spacecraft and Earth.

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