Astronomy tends to be considered a pure science, taught at the university science departments. The Space Industry, on the other hand, was always in the hands of engineers, working on satellite communication, satellite navigation, earth observation and space travel.
The last
years however, the two disciplines are coming closer. A mutual
cross-fertilisation is taking place. On the one hand, astronomy is becoming more
technical. Increasingly sophisticated measurements are delivered by satellites and
space probes. The Hubble space telescope is an important example. Satellite navigation
signals are increasingly being used to support astronomy measurements.
In the area
of the satellite industry, the stars were already important to steer the
satellite’s attitude, to make sure the satellite is not spinning and oriented
in the right direction. A new discipline is emerging however. Optical satellite
communication makes use of telescope technology and needs to know the
complicated turbulence models of the earth’s atmosphere in order to predict the
feasibility of a satellite communication link. Engineers need collaboration with astronomers to understand the optics of the atmosphere and the functioning
of modern telescopes. One day, this may enable Quantum Key Distribution from space, a novel technique to distribute encryption keys without the risk of eavesdropping.
Again a very good example of interdisciplinary research and development. I also refer to my blog What Satellites Can Do for You.
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