Already in Orbit: COTS Beam Stabilization Systems from PI to Enable Highly Reliable Data Transmission for LEO Satellites
Summary
In order for laser beams to maintain a reliable and permanent connection to the receiving dishes of satellites at great distances, vibrations and drift, for example, must be compensated for in a highly dynamic manner. In addition to the actual functionality of beam stabilization, the subsystems must withstand the accelerations during rocket launches as well as high temperature fluctuations and radiation exposure in space. Pioneering LEO network operators have successfully deployed PI FSMs in their communication satellites and have confirmed their unrestricted suitability for use in space. For other operators, PI engineers have developed electromagnetically driven tip/tilt mirror systems (voice coil FSMs) for larger deflections. The market for global LEO satellite equipment is booming and the PI Group is preparing for a strong increase in demand.