Transmission of a computer image via a laser

In summary, NASA has transmitted an image of the Mona Lisa via a laser beam. The method used is similar to that of transmitting simple data like text via a serial port on a computer, but with a photo diode attached to another computer. The goal of this experiment was to backup radio communication.
  • #1
paulhunn
34
0
Recently in the news NASA has transmitted an image of the Mona Lisa via a laser beam and i was wondering about some of the theory behind how they did it and maybe trying to recreate something similar on a (much) smaller scale.
I've seen some articles online that show a method for transmitting simple data like text via a serial port on a computer like this one: http://sci-toys.com/scitoys/scitoys/computers/laser/free_space_laser_data_transmitter.html

Could this be modified in any way to transmit an image file? Possibly by directing the laser to a photo-diode connected to another computer via the serial port. I'm not sure if there's already any software which would fit the purpose or if i'd have to get something coded myself to do the job. I have very little programming experience so if anyone has in help in that respect i'd be really grateful.

If anyone has any help/info/advice or other suggestions they would be greatly appreciated

Thanks in advance

Paul
 
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  • #2
paulhunn said:
Recently in the news NASA has transmitted an image of the Mona Lisa via a laser beam and i was wondering about some of the theory behind how they did it and maybe trying to recreate something similar on a (much) smaller scale.
I've seen some articles online that show a method for transmitting simple data like text via a serial port on a computer like this one: http://sci-toys.com/scitoys/scitoys/computers/laser/free_space_laser_data_transmitter.html

Could this be modified in any way to transmit an image file? Possibly by directing the laser to a photo-diode connected to another computer via the serial port. I'm not sure if there's already any software which would fit the purpose or if i'd have to get something coded myself to do the job. I have very little programming experience so if anyone has in help in that respect i'd be really grateful.

If anyone has any help/info/advice or other suggestions they would be greatly appreciated

Thanks in advance

Paul

Do you have a link to the NASA story? Transmitting digital data via laser/fiberoptics is nothing new. I'm wondering if they used some sort of mechanical scanning mirrors to pick up and then re-display the image...?
 
  • #4
berkeman said:
Do you have a link to the NASA story? Transmitting digital data via laser/fiberoptics is nothing new. I'm wondering if they used some sort of mechanical scanning mirrors to pick up and then re-display the image...?
From the story link,

"This is the first time anyone has achieved one-way laser communication at planetary distances," David Smith, a researcher working with the LRO's Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter -- which received the Mona Lisa message -- said in a statement. "In the near future, this type of simple laser communication might serve as a backup for the radio communication that satellites use. In the more distance future, it may allow communication at higher data rates than present radio links can provide."

The team divided the famous da Vinci painting into sections measuring 150 by 200 pixels and then transmitted them via the pulsing of the laser to the orbiter at a data rate of about 300 bits per second.

300 Bd? :eek:
I'm guessing they are using some sort of forward error correction (FEC) method.

FEC gives the receiver the ability to correct errors without needing a reverse channel to request retransmission of data, ...
 
  • #5
Ok well I've found a pretty good amount of info online and i think a good approach would would be to use an Arduino as an interface for the laser and receiver. Does anyone have any experience in using/coding one of these?
 
  • #6
The easiest way to experiment is to connect two computers via a null model cable, but where the "cable" is just an optical link. You don't need to use special software, a standard terminal program works just fine.

Hardware-wise all you need to do is to connect a laser diodes to the Tx pin, and photodiodes to the Rx pin of serial ports. The only potential problem is that you need to keep an eye on the voltage levels (the serial port works with +15V, so you need in interface chip or a voltage divider) and make sure you can supply enough current to the laser diode.

This kind of experiment is quite often done at school, I think I did it a couple of times.

You could of course use an Arduino, but I unless you are going to implement some fancy error correction that can't be done by the software on the computer I don't see the point.
 

1. How does transmission of a computer image via a laser work?

The transmission of a computer image via a laser involves converting the digital image data into a series of light pulses. These pulses are then transmitted through a laser beam and received by a sensor on the other end. The sensor interprets the pulses and converts them back into a digital image.

2. What are the benefits of using a laser for image transmission?

Laser transmission offers several benefits, including high data transfer speeds, low interference, and the ability to transmit over long distances without degradation of signal. It also allows for a more secure and reliable transmission compared to other methods.

3. Are there any limitations to using a laser for image transmission?

While laser transmission has many advantages, it does have some limitations. The line of sight between the transmitter and receiver must be clear, and any physical obstructions can disrupt the transmission. Additionally, laser transmission may not be suitable for extremely large or complex images.

4. How does the quality of the laser affect image transmission?

The quality of the laser can greatly impact the transmission of a computer image. A high-quality laser will produce a more precise and stable beam, resulting in a clearer and more accurate transmission. On the other hand, a low-quality laser may produce a weaker and less reliable beam, leading to a lower quality image transmission.

5. Are there any safety concerns with using lasers for image transmission?

Yes, there are some safety concerns to consider when using lasers for image transmission. Lasers can emit high levels of light energy, which can be harmful to the eyes and skin if proper precautions are not taken. It is important to use lasers in a controlled environment and follow safety protocols to avoid any potential hazards.

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