The challenge
How can we identify the most promising sites for installing an optical ground station?
Alice’s mission at Miratlas
Alice Bellec spent two years at Miratlas helping us answer that question. While pursuing a master’s degree in Aeronautics and Space at Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Alice worked alongside Guillaume Vialaneix, our R&D Director, to compare atmospheric turbulence predictions with field measurements.
From predictions to local conditions
At Miratlas, we use Pathfinder to assess potential sites using weather data and understand how sites complement one another across a ground station network. But its predictions need to be checked against local conditions: the underlying models have a spatial resolution of about 30 km and use data collected every three hours.
Research at Durham University
Alice visited Durham University, where Pathfinder’s algorithms were developed. There, she compared its predictions with measurements from SHIMM (Shack-Hartmann Image Motion Monitor) and used FAST, open-source software developed at Durham, to study how turbulence affects optical signal transmission.
Extending the analysis across sites
Back at Miratlas, she extended this analysis using data from our Sky Monitors across several sites. She identified groups of parameters that may help explain why predictions and measurements differ from site to site.
Impact and perspective
“Alice’s findings are already informing our modeling work and helping us refine how we assess sites for optical communications. We look forward to building on these results,” says Guillaume Vialaneix.
“Welcoming apprentices is always rewarding. They bring fresh perspectives and energy, ask questions we might not have considered, and sometimes open the door to new approaches.”
Recognition and thanks
To recognize her contribution, Guillaume nominated Alice for an Ingénieurs 2000 award honoring outstanding work by engineering apprentices.
Alice, thank you from the entire Miratlas team for your curiosity, thoroughness, and contribution to our mission. We wish you all the best in your next chapter!
