A list of requirements is shown below. Determine how many requirements each of the communications methods fulfill and put that number under each option.
MISSION COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS
Each requirement is worth one point.
Supports a direct communication link with Earth.
Transmits a very large amount of scientific data.
Minimizes spacecraft power consumption.
Compact and lightweight Equipment.
Must account for unclear skies.
Can route information through another
spacecraft when a direct link is unavailable.
Ground weather:
Unclear skies
Remaining power:
Very low
Data awaiting transmission:
Extremely large
OPTION A
RADIO COMMUNICATION
Uses radio-frequency electromagnetic waves to transmit
information directly between a spacecraft and Earth.
CAPABILITIES
Supports direct spacecraft-to-Earth communication
Long-established space communication technology
Does not depend on clear skies
LIMITATIONS
Higher data rates may require larger antennas or
greater transmitter power
Comparable systems may require more size, mass and
power than laser communication equipment
OPTION B
OPTICAL / LASER COMMUNICATION
Uses a carefully aimed beam of infrared light to transmit
information between a spacecraft and Earth.
CAPABILITIES
Supports direct spacecraft-to-Earth communication
Can transmit very large amounts of data
Typically requires less power than comparable
radio systems
Equipment can be smaller and lighter than comparable
radio systems
LIMITATIONS
Clouds and atmospheric turbulence can disrupt the signal
Precise aim required
OPTION C
COMMUNICATION RELAY
Sends information to another spacecraft or satellite,
which forwards it towards its final destination.
CAPABILITIES
Routes information through another spacecraft when
a direct link is unavailable
Can help a spacecraft stay connected for longer periods
LIMITATIONS
A suitable relay spacecraft must be available
Being a relay does not automatically guarantee low power,
low mass or high data capacity
ENTER SYSTEM RECOVERY CODE
Count the requirements satisfied by each option.
Enter the three scores in order: