A Kalman filter based synchronization scheme for telescope array receivers in deep-space optical communication links

作者：Hashmi Ali Javed^*; Eftekhar Ali; Adibi Ali; Amoozegar Farid

来源：Optics Communications, 2012, 285(24): 5037-5043.

DOI：10.1016/j.optcom.2012.08.025

• Deep-space optical communication
• Kalman filter
• Telescope array receiver
• Clock synchronization

In this paper, the impact of random synchronization errors on the performance of ground-based telescope array receivers for an inter-planetary optical deep-space communication (ODSC) link is investigated. An adaptive method based on Kalman filters is developed for the synchronization and combination of different telescope signals in the array. An end-to-end simulation platform for ODSC link between Earth and planet Mars is implemented that incorporates pulse-position modulation (PPM), direct-detection array receivers, and photon-counting detectors. The effects of atmospheric turbulence and background noise are also modeled. The performance of array receivers is evaluated in terms of probability of symbol error and achievable data rates. The simulation results show that the Kalman filter-based synchronization scheme keeps the synchronization induced power losses to less than 1 dB. The analysis also shows that in the worst-case operational scenario and presence of random synchronization errors, an array consisting of hundred, 1 m telescopes performs almost similar to a single 10 m telescope. Hence, the degradation in the combined signal due to synchronization errors places a minor limitation on the number of telescopes in a telescope array receiver consisting of up to 100 telescope elements.

• 出版日期2012-11-1