Packet error rate analysis of OOK, DPIM, and PPM modulation schemes for ground-to-satellite laser uplink communications.

Performance of on-off keying (OOK), digital pulse interval modulation (DPIM), and pulse position modulation (PPM) schemes are researched for ground-to-satellite laser uplink communications. Packet error rates of these modulation systems are compared, with consideration of the combined effect of intensity fluctuation and beam wander. Based on the numerical results, performances of different modulation systems are discussed. Optimum divergence angle and transmitted beam radius of different modulation systems are indicated and the relations of the transmitted laser power to them are analyzed. This work can be helpful for modulation scheme selection and system design in ground-to-satellite laser uplink communications.