Ultra High-Speed and Compact Optical Transmitter for Satellite Communications

Compact, high-speed, and multi-functional optical transmitters are needed for inter-satellite and on board communication systems. Multiplex, Inc., University of California – San Diego, and Lockheed Martin propose to develop ultra high speed (> 40Gb/s) optical transmitters with high output power (> 13dBm) by monolithically integrating a laser, electro-absorption modulator and a semiconductor optical amplifier on InP chips, producing ultra compact transmitter assemblies capable of fast wavelength tuning in the 1550-nm band. Innovative laser and expanded-mode waveguide modulator will also be designed for integration on the optical chip with potential growth path to even higher bandwidth and power for space communications. The successful development of the optical transmitter will impact future DoD inter-satellite and on board communication links and stimulate commercial applications by demonstrating innovative and manufacturable technologies for components and subsystems. BENEFIT: This device will produce a high bandwidth, compact optical transmitter as an eventual replacement for the externally modulated transmitters now planned for communications between and within spacecraft/aircraft in many next generation military systems (e.g.TSAT/ AEHF/Gapfiller/Space-Based-Radar/Military-Support-Programs/F35). While near term requirements are below 10 Gb/s, growth to over 40 Gb/s to support imaging payloads is very likely. It also will provide a growth path to even higher bandwidths and the more compact and economic components that will eventually be needed as the number of links grow. Nearer term application for this transmitter can also be found in on-board military space and airborne communications and Special Programs applications. Therefore this device will enable compact optical RF signal distribution and signal processing with dramatically lower size, weight and power (SWaP) and improved agility. Eventual commercial space communications applications are also likely.