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Brian Smith
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We use lasers containing various elements in vacuums on Earth all the time. Is it possible to use lasers in the dirty vacuum of space to take pics and transmit at near the speed of light?
Optical lasers to photograph space
In summary: All em waves travel at c in space so there is nothing particularly magical about using lasers for communication. In fact there are many advantages in using 'conventional' radio frequency communications systems which can include very sophisticated signal processing to get very good signal to noise ratios / data error rates.
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berkeman
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Welcome to the PF.Brian Smith said:
What do you mean by using a laser to take a picture? Certainly the transmission of information by laser beam can be at the speed of light...
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Brian Smith
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Well, one example is an optical cable that uses light to send music or other digital info. Another example are machines that impregnate wafers with molecules of boron etc to create computer chips and they do it in a vacuum at near the speed of light. So it seems to me that images can be copied digitally from light years away.berkeman said:Welcome to the PF.
What do you mean by using a laser to take a picture? Certainly the transmission of information by laser beam can be at the speed of light...
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berkeman
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Sure. In fact, I believe NASA already is using optical communication with at least one probe -- I'll see if I can find a reference for that.Brian Smith said:
But you implied in your post that you want to use a laser to "take a picture". Do you just mean to transmit the information from a conventional camera instead?
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berkeman
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Brian Smith
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Good point! What's going to take the pic? Perhaps photo- receptor cells idk Thanksberkeman said:Welcome to the PF.
What do you mean by using a laser to take a picture? Certainly the transmission of information by laser beam can be at the speed of light...
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Brian Smith
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Thanks for the link. It seems there has to be something in place to send and receive the transmission and over limited distances.berkeman said:
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davenn
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Brian Smith said:
Yes, of course
you need a digital camera to take the image/photo and through the magic of electronics, gets converted to a digital data stream to drive a laser
at the receiver end you will need a laser sensitive receiver chip that will receive the laser light which will be converted to an electronic digital data stream
and fed to what ever display system you desire
Dave
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sophiecentaur
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All em waves travel at c in space so there is nothing particularly magical about using lasers for communication. In fact there are many advantages in using 'conventional' radio frequency communications systems which can include very sophisticated signal processing to get very good signal to noise ratios / data error rates.Brian Smith said:
Related to Optical lasers to photograph space
1. How do optical lasers help in photographing space?
Optical lasers are used in the field of astrophotography to enhance image quality and capture more detailed images of distant objects in space. The intense, focused beam of light from an optical laser can act as a guide for telescopes, helping them to pinpoint and track specific objects in the night sky. This allows for clearer images to be captured, even from great distances.
2. What types of optical lasers are used for photographing space?
There are various types of optical lasers used in astrophotography, including solid-state lasers, fiber lasers, and gas lasers. Each type has its own unique properties and advantages, but all are able to produce a highly concentrated beam of light that is useful for guiding telescopes and capturing images of celestial objects.
3. How do scientists ensure the safety of optical lasers in space photography?
Scientists take several precautions to ensure the safety of optical lasers in space photography. This includes using lasers with specific wavelengths that are safe for the eyes and following strict guidelines for their use. Additionally, telescopes are equipped with safety mechanisms to prevent accidental exposure to the laser beam.
4. Can optical lasers be used to photograph all objects in space?
No, optical lasers are most effective for photographing objects that are relatively close to Earth, such as planets, moons, and nearby stars. They are not as useful for capturing images of extremely distant objects, such as galaxies or nebulae, which require different imaging techniques.
5. How have optical lasers advanced space photography?
The use of optical lasers has greatly advanced space photography by allowing for clearer and more detailed images of distant objects to be captured. This has enabled scientists to study and understand the universe in greater depth, and has also contributed to advancements in other fields such as astronomy and cosmology.
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