SBIR/STTR Award attributes
Space Micro, together with partner BridgeComm, Inc., offers the Managed Optical Communications Array MOCA) based one-to-many (OTM) terminal as the communications solution for free-space optical intersatellite links (OISL) of the National Defense Space Architecture (NDSA). The MOCA technology maintains inherent security and multi-gigabit per second data rates of optical communications, while supporting multiple simultaneous connections in a wide field of regard (FoR). MOCA-based terminals exceed SDA requirements for Low Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C), free-space optical intersatellite links (OISL) capable of high bandwidth (>1 Gbps) data rates at relevant range that are compatible with the SDA OISL Open Standard. MOCA based terminals provide the following capabilities: Multi-user (one-to-many) high bandwidth connectivity: MOCA enables multiple simultaneous connections of up to 25 Gbps for the SDA application. Simultaneous connections allow for efficient creation of mesh networks for improved resiliency over point-to-point OISL. Orbital constellation range and pattern compatibility: Link range of up to 5,000 km with up to 90 degree FoR for in-plane and out-of-plane connections. Low SWaP-C: MOCA-based terminals eliminate need for a mechanically steered gimbal, resulting in lower mass and cost per terminal. Wide FoR potentially results in fewer OISLs per spacecraft than traditional OISLs. Standards compatibility: Fully compatible with the SDA OISL Open Standard. Implementation of the standards in MOCA-based terminals requires no unique development and is planned as part of the proposed Phase II effort. In addition, the MOCA technology is modular and scalable, allowing for rapid development and implementation of terminals suitable for the space, air, land, and sea domains. The individual modules are low-profile and can be integrated conformally into compact terminals or vehicle structures. This is ideal for air-to-space terminals to extend the NDSA communications network and increase resiliency with proliferated OTM capability.
