Integrated Optical Waveguides for Satellite Optical Communications Receivers

ABSTRACT: Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop an optical integrated circuit that will allow optical thresholding and clock recovery from received signals in space communications systems. The system will be based on optical frequency mixers in lithium niobate that are compatible with any modulation format and data rates beyond 100 Gb/s. PSI has extensive experience implementing optical signal processing functions using the mature lithium niobate material system, which has been proven in satellite applications. The optical frequency mixers will be integrated with electronic and optical fiber components to create a unique receiver architecture suitable for the demanding space communications environment. During the Phase I program, an integrated device including directional couplers for beam combining, harmonic generators for optical threshold detection, and frequency mixing for clock recovery will be designed. A complete receiver including a local oscillator laser for the clock recovery function will also be designed using this novel optical integrated circuit. A prototype device will be fabricated in Phase II, where all components will be integrated into a compact package suitable for space qualification. BENEFIT: The proposed research and development will result in device technology that is directly applicable to commercial optical communications systems. The material and device structures will enable all-optical signal processing functions that will enable low-power, compact transceivers compatible with secure protocols and increased data rates.