Innovative Lasing Techniques for Satellite Signal Distribution

SA Photonics is pleased to propose the COMET Software Defined Laser system for satellite applications. The COMET laser source is an integrated source that supports LIDAR, wavelength diversity broadband sensing, and laser based free-space communication applications from a single laser source. The system integrates two parallel channels of modulated fiber amplifiers, and a supercontinuum generator to produce broadband spectral content from 0.4-4 um. Being an integrated solution, components and functionality are shared between the functional units, minimizing size, weight and Power (SWaP). The COMET system employs a flexible modulation engine that produces arbitrary pulse waveforms for sensing applications, and flexible data modulation to support bandwidth driven lasercom. In combination with SA Photonics synchronous pumped fiber amplifier technology, which enables extremely low pulse-repetition frequency sensing operation, the COMET system supports sensing and lasercom operation to greater than 200 km. BENEFIT: By providing a common source to support LIDAR, wavelength diversity sensing, and lasercom applications, the COMET system enables enhanced satellite Space Situational Awareness (SSA) capabilities at a much lower cost as well as reduced size, weight, and power (SWaP). By providing operation for all modes beyond a 200 km range, the safety of satellites and it’s payload is increased, providing more reliable satellite operation and avoiding costs of satellite replacement. Given the flexibility of the COMET system, it can be easily extended to other applications such as aircraft, naval, ground, and missile defense applications. In addition, COMET provides a future proof platform that can scale to meet the growing bandwidth and sensing needs.