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Technology That Speeds Up Deep Space Science Communications

deep space science communications
In an effort to increase the rate of data collection from those spacecraft, researchers at NASA Glenn are developing ultra-sensitive receivers that can pick up on signals coming from spacecraft very far away.

Delays can occur when getting data back from spacecraft in deep space. The challenge stems from a combination of distance from Earth and limited spacecraft power.

In an effort to increase the rate of data collection from those spacecraft, researchers at NASA Glenn are developing ultra-sensitive receivers that can pick up on signals coming from spacecraft very far away.

Senior Technologist Bob Romanofsky uses liquid nitrogen to test the devices called Superconducting Quantum Interference Filter-Based Microwave Receivers in a new laboratory clad in a special alloy. The shielded room not only prevents electric field interference but also magnetic field interference to enable sensitive noise measurements.

The technology is a fusion of the world’s most sensitive magnetic field detector and a novel antenna system. The receiver technology is intended for next generation deep-space network applications.

Image credit:
Bridget Caswell, Alcyon Technical Services