Communication Systems

We develop advanced systems and technology to enable the next generation of communications networks. Our work explores how to make satellite communications more resilient, how to make longer and faster laser datalinks to space, and how to improve tactical radios for soldiers.

Communication Networks and Analysis
Laser Communications
Optical and Quantum Communications
Strategic and Long-Range Communications
Tactical Edge Communications
Tactical Satellite Communications

How can we enable timely and automated data sharing across Department of Defense space, air, and surface platforms operating over vast distances? Researchers in our group develop technologies, algorithms, and architectures to provide resilient and interoperable communications across the joint force.

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The exterior main entrance of MIT Lincoln Laboratory is shown with a radar antenna in the background.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a workhorse for national security

Apr 11

A simulated image of a black hole's photon ring.

TBIRD technology could help image black holes' photon rings

Nov 6

At Kennedy Space Center, Laboratory staff members Justin Dunbeck (left) and Steven Constantine unpack and examine the Optical Communications System payload for NASA's Artemis II mission to the Moon. Photo: NASA/Glenn Benson.

First communications user terminal demonstrated in two-way laser relay prepares for Moon flyby

Oct 18

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A schematic showing links between small uncrewed aerial vehicles and ground vehicles.

sensing

Precision Clock Synchronization for Advanced Sensing

Combined quantum networking and lasercom optical signaling techniques could impact advanced sensing applications such as geolocation with distributed systems.

A schematic showing the Earth with many satellite links.

satellite communications (SATCOM)

Networking for a New Era of Global Satellite Connectivity

Large constellations of satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) allow for unparalleled global coverage but require new networking approaches.

A prototype reflectarray faces a feed horn in an anechoic chamber.

communications

Mitigating cellular network congestion through adaptive beamforming with reflectarrays

A low-cost, reconfigurable radio receiver architecture provides an alternative approach to filter out unwanted transmissions in millimeter-wave (MMW) signals.

A schematic showing optical ground terminals and satellites transmitting data via lasercom links across the Earth and to the Moon.

laser communications

Guiding Light in Air-Filled Fibers for Long-Distance Lasercom

A new type of fiber could transmit the high-power light needed for future deep-space science and exploration missions.

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I take pride in being able to communicate my work and its significance in a way that is accessible to a wide audience.

Rachel Sampson

Optical Engineer

Communication Systems

Communication Networks and Analysis

A portrait photograph of Rachel Sampson.

It’s gratifying to be driven not by profits or citation counts but rather by the improvement of the country.

Eric Bersin

Electrical Engineer

Communication Systems

Optical and Quantum Communications

An outdoor portrait photograph of Eric Bersin.

I value transitioning theoretical concepts to practice and sought a career where I could utilize my analytical skills to build communication systems that make a difference in today’s world.