Introducing photonics in spacecraft engineering: ESA's strategic approach

Photonic technologies in the form of fiber optics, integrated optics and micro-photonics offer some compelling advantages when considered for use in spacecraft. Since 2002 the European Space Agency has engaged in a comprehensive Research and Development program in Photonics that covers applications in communications, sensing, signal processing as well as in some specialized applications. The Research and Development program has been accompanied with the first in-flight demonstrations as well as with the first operational use of fiber optics as critical element of a satellite payload. Fiber optic digital communications for all types of data rates is the first application of Photonics that will reach space qualification. Analog signal communication will follow together with fiber optic sensing. Signal processing applications including Rf down-conversion, switching and analog to digital conversion with electro-photonic means are also under development and their potentials remain to be assessed in comparison with the evolving electronic approaches.