Shock Resistant MEMS Optical Matrix Switch

Future military satellite fiber optic systems require a matrix optical switch for reconfigurability. But to date, no MEMS based switch has been able to withstand the harsh shock and vibration environment of space. Agiltron, Inc., an experienced manufacturer of aerospace qualified optical switches, proposes to realize a new MEMS-based fiber-optic matrix switch capable of vastly improved performance in harsh operating environments. The design will be the first MEMS matrix switch optimized specifically to meet the requirements for use in space on TSAT, and will possess properties of reliability, miniature size, low optical loss, and resistance to shock and vibration not attainable before. Three advances in Agiltron switch technology will be combined to achieve these goals, including a new MEMS actuation mechanism, optimized optical beam formation, and space qualified packaging. The feasibility of the key breakthrough was successfully demonstrated in Phase I; in Phase II we will build and characterize fully functional devices. Agiltron will be joined in Phase II by Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems as a no-cost advisor to assist with defining optical switching and insertion requirements for TSAT.