DiGOS provides turnkey Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) and Space Debris Laser Ranging (SDLR) stations with continuous long-term support.. This includes design, system engineering and implementation of new SLR stations, upgrade and enhancement of existing Laser Ranging stations with SCOPE as well as optimization and operation of such systems. State-of-the-art SLR stations, COTS driven implementation satisfying the high-performance requirements for the variety of planned usage, well prepared for a complete automatization.
Constructing, installing and implanting a LRS for the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency is a good reference to show that DiGOS is the right partner if a flexible solutions are required.
Laser Stations
View our Projects and Products:
Project
New Laser Ranging Station for Japanese Space Agency (JAXA)
At the end of 2018, DiGOS won an international tender to develop and install a new Laser Ranging Station for Japanese Space Agency (JAXA).
Based on the proven design of the ELRS, a turn-key SLR system has been developed as a new laser ranging work horse for the Agency. Following the successful system check at the DiGOS grounds in Potsdam in 2021, it will be installed at the Tsukuba Space Center in mid-2022.
Project
New ESA Laser Ranging Station (ELRS)
DiGOS developed a new Satellite Laser Ranging Station for the European Space Agency (ESA) together with an international team of subcontractors. The highly flexible, state-of-the-art Laser Ranging Station is designed to also support fully automated operation, space debris laser ranging and optical satellite communication in the future. The station was installed on Tenerife/Spain and commissioned in 2022.
Project
Optical Ground Stations for Laser Communication
Two German institutions – the Bundeswehr University and the German Aerospace Center – have selected DiGOS to install two Optical Ground Stations (OGS) in Munich and Trauen, respectively. The OGS will be equipped with laser communication terminals by the German Aerospace Center, and used for satellite laser communication experiments. The OGS are based on proven components from renowned suppliers and will be operated using DiGOS’ own SCOPE control software. DiGOS takes care of the complete system engineering, installation, integration of customer laser communication packages, and commissioning of the two OGS infrastructure projects.
Project
GNSS Satellite Laser Ranging Testbed
For improved accuracy and validation of their satellite navigation system, the Galileo consortium envisages to establish a dedicated SLR ground station network. DiGOS won an ESA tender and has been contracted to develop the first prototype station, the GNSS Laser Ranging System (GLRS). GLRS will set new standards in performance, reliability and automation. The project includes an extended validation process, during which the new GLRS will be operated by DiGOS in cooperation with one or more other SLR systems, demonstrating the potential of a dedicated GNSS SLR network.
SCOPE
Command & Control Software
SCOPE is a command & control software suite for laser ranging systems and optical ground stations. It is in operational use at the GFZ Potsdam SLR station since 2012 and the ELRS system on Tenerife, and is used in all new DiGOS installations.
Range Gate Generator
RG2: Timing Control for Laser Ranging Systems
The Range Gate Generator is used in laser ranging systems to generate triggers for both the laser and the detector. It is highly configurable, supports different operation modes for satellite, space debris ranging and calibrations, and is compatible with a wide range of hardware.
Safety System
Modular system for station protection and laser safety
DiGOS offers various modules to protect laser stations from damage, and to ensure safe laser operations. These 19” rack modules monitor emergency buttons, door contacts, weather sensors and other inputs to ensure the system is brought to a safe state in case of problems. Additional modules for the detection of aircrafts in the laser hazard area exist as well.