How far to space
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Understanding the Concept of Space: From Near to Deep Space
Near Space: Definition and Characteristics
Near Space Altitude Range and Applications
Near space is typically defined as the region of Earth's atmosphere that lies between 20 km and 100 km above the surface. This area is a unique interdisciplinary field involving atmospheric physics, space physics, plasma physics, photochemistry, and geosciences. Near space is challenging for traditional airplanes to fly in and for satellites to detect, making it a relatively underutilized and poorly understood region compared to lower and higher altitudes.
Technological Developments in Near Space
Recent advancements have led to the development of optical surveillance systems for balloon-based platforms operating in near space. These systems are designed to enhance our observational capabilities in this challenging environment, providing valuable data for various scientific disciplines.
Far Space: Behavioral and Neural Representation
Behavioral Definition of Far Space
Far space, or extrapersonal space, is behaviorally defined as the area outside of arm-reaching distance. This distinction is not just physical but also has significant implications for how space is represented in the brain . Studies have shown that the brain's representation of space can be altered by the use of tools, effectively remapping far space as near space when tools extend the body's reach .
Neural Networks for Far Space Processing
Research using functional MRI in non-human primates has identified distinct cortical networks dedicated to processing far space. These networks involve regions such as the occipital, temporal, parietal, posterior cingulate, and orbitofrontal areas, which are primarily responsible for processing the shape and identity of distant objects. This neural architecture supports the continuous encoding of relative distance to the body, forming a gradient from far to near space.
Deep Space: Exploration and Missions
Definition and Scope of Deep Space
Deep space is generally defined as the region beyond 100,000 km from Earth's surface. This includes missions to the Moon, which is approximately 400,000 km away, as well as missions to other planets like Mars and distant asteroids. Deep space exploration requires overcoming significant technological and conceptual barriers, as human space voyages have predominantly been confined to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), about 500 km above Earth.
Current and Future Deep Space Missions
Asia's agenda for deep space exploration includes missions to the Moon and Mars, focusing on expanding human presence and scientific understanding beyond Earth's immediate vicinity. These missions are part of a broader effort to explore and utilize the vast expanse of space beyond our planet.
Integrated Space-to-Ground Quantum Communication
Achievements in Quantum Communication
A significant milestone in space-to-ground communication has been the development of an integrated quantum communication network. This network combines over 700 fiber QKD links on the ground with two high-speed satellite-to-ground free-space QKD links, covering a total distance of 4,600 km. The satellite-to-ground QKD achieves an average secret-key rate of 47.8 kilobits per second, significantly higher than previous achievements, and demonstrates the feasibility of constructing ultralong quantum links via geosynchronous satellites.
Practical Implications and Future Prospects
The integration of fiber and free-space QKD links enables secure communication between more than 150 users over vast distances, paving the way for a global quantum communication network. This development holds promise for enhancing the security and reliability of information transfer on a global scale.
Conclusion
The exploration and understanding of space, from near to deep space, involve a complex interplay of behavioral, neural, and technological factors. Advances in near space observation, the neural representation of far space, and deep space missions are expanding our horizons. Additionally, breakthroughs in quantum communication are setting the stage for secure, long-distance information transfer, highlighting the interconnected nature of space exploration and technology.
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