Japan’s space agency, JAXA, has achieved a significant milestone in satellite communications. The agency successfully transmitted data between two satellites at unprecedented speeds, paving the way for a new era of space exploration and Earth observation.
The experiment involved the newly launched Daichi 4 satellite, which was placed in a geosynchronous orbit. Daichi 4 transmitted data to the LUCAS relay satellite, located at an altitude of 40,000 kilometers. Using advanced optical technology, JAXA achieved a staggering transmission speed of 1.8 Gbps, setting a new world record.
This breakthrough has profound implications for Earth observation. With the ability to transmit data at such high speeds, satellites like Daichi 4 can now send real-time information to Earth for much longer periods. This will enable scientists to monitor our planet with greater frequency and accuracy, providing valuable insights into climate change, natural disasters, and other critical environmental issues.
JAXA plans to expand its optical communication experiments to include other satellites, such as the Kibo module on the International Space Station. By harnessing the power of light, Japan is pushing the boundaries of space technology and securing its position as a global leader in the field.
