Compact Multi-Access Lasercom

Optical Physics Company (OPC) has been a technology solution provider in free space laser communications for almost a decade. The proposed SBIR project will investigate two key innovations for a cost effective lasercom terminal architecture that meets or exceeds all requirements for pointing and accuracy, data rate, acquisition time, reliability, radiation tolerance, and operating temperature range in a compact low weight, low power package. The first innovation is the three level filter tree that separates eight distinct receive and eight distinct transmit lines. The second innovation is the selection of materials for a wide operating temperature range in space. The main advantages are full bandwidth capability of each access lasercom link at 40Gbps, operational flexibility without any constraints on geometry, and development heritage to well proven designs. Phase I investigation will develop an analytic performance model (APM), formulate design options for the optical front end, and evaluate options for combining the wavelength division multiplexing with other channel multiplexing options. Trade studies will compare size, weight and power, risk, ruggedness, cost and performance, as well as scalability of various implementation options. Phase I effort will conclude with a design review of the wavelength selective filter planned for the Phase II prototype. BENEFIT: On this project, OPC is teamed with a prime contractor who is a key player in laser communications. There are two potential technology transition paths: One of these is to add laser communication channels to satellites developed and launched under the Wideband Global Satcom (WGS) and Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) communications satellite programs. Another option is evolving multiple small scale application specific systems rather than a large, monolithic system. This would serve the DOD and the intelligence community’s need of less complex, less risky systems that can be developed and deployed faster. The technology is a strong candidate for both options. Furthermore, besides military applications, lasercom can also be a commercial option in some limited environments.