Recent R&D activities of the Lunar – the Earth Optical Communication Systems in Japan

Abstract

The ARTEMIS program aims to explore Mars and the Moon through international cooperation [1]. Japan is improving high-speed data transmission between the Moon and the Earth. The target of the data rate is 1 Gbps. Conventional RF technology cannot achieve this target. It is expected that bidirectional transmission that can deliver a massive volume of data will be needed after the 2030s. Under various scenarios, JAXA and NICT have started joint research. This paper reports on their preliminary study of Moon-to-Earth optical communication systems. Several technical issues and our R&D plans are discussed. We hope this paper encourages the standardization and partnerships for these optical data links between the Moon and Earth.