Space-based VLBI imaging can dramatically improve state-of-the-art astronomical radio-imaging resolution by enabling significantly longer baseline distances and eliminating atmospheric-attenuation constraints on RF carrier imaging wavelength. However, smaller space-based apertures and sensitivity constraints impose challenging recorded-data downlink-rate requirements, potentially to 256 Gbit/s. Laser communications is a promising option for realizing such highrate long-distance downlinks with modest power and aperture demands. Here, we present a scalable lasercom architecture that can enable high-rate long-distance downlinks needed for enhanced space-based VLBI imaging from geosynchronous orbit (GEO).
The Event Horizon Explorer (EHE) is a mission concept to extend the Event Horizon Telescope via an additional space-based node. We provide highlights and overview of a concept study to explore the feasibility of such a mission. We present science goals and objectives, which include studying the immediate environment around supermassive black holes, and focus on critical enabling technologies and engineering challenges. We provide an assessment of their technological readiness and overall suitability for a NASA Medium Explorer (MIDEX) class mission.
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