A Modular Miniature Satellite Laser Communications Transceiver

ABSTRACT: The data transmission capacity required for fixed and tactical information networking continues to increase. Deploying traditional RF or microwave broadband direct line of sight (DLoS) links does not meet future warfighter needs. A key thrust for the Air Force (AF) is Assured Access Communications. This involves the pursuit of affordable low probability of intercept and detect (LPI/D) and anti-jam (AJ) DLoS transmission links to provide secure and survivable communications in anti-access / anti-denial (A2/AD) environments. This capability is also critical at the tactical edge, where many legacy RF communication systems must operate in a spectrum congested environment or the warfighter faces challenging international spectrum licensing issues. The solution will require hybrid spectrum transmission solutions which utilize advanced broadband and reliable free space optical communication systems.Space Photonics, Inc. (SPI), Harris Corporation (Harris), and SCHOTT North America, Inc. (SCHOTT NA) have partnered to address this challenge. The overall goal is to advance SBIR funded optical tracking terminal technology (LaserFire) developed by SPI, integrate with a Harris-developed 10 Gbps dynamic buffering hybrid FSO/RF modem, and perform a demonstration at Langley AFB for ACC. BENEFIT: The systems being developed are applicable to many commercial communications markets including"last mile", cellular backhaul, and building to building. Any application requiring ultra high bandwidth, secure/covert, EMI-immune, or rapid-deploy would benefit from this technology.