Integration and Range Test of a Photonic Beamformer with Photonic Antenna Modules

PSI has recently demonstrated two photonic subsystems: a novel T/R photonic antenna module and a photonic true time delay (PTTD) beamformer. We propose the fabrication, integration and test of these subsystems via a phased antenna array range demonstration in which the test system is comprised of a wideband antenna array, prototype antenna modules and a PTTD beamformer. The overarching goal of the range tests is to obtain a thorough understanding of how the performance of the photonic subsystems affect the overall system performance, and of practical issues such as array calibration. A key focus of the proposed Phase II development effort is to reduce the size, weight and power of the system. In keeping with the long-term goal of eliminating the need for dc power at the antenna, the photonic antenna modules will support electrical power generation by a photovoltaic converter. High performance photonic components currently being developed under DARPA’s ULTRA T/R program will be leveraged to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the system as cost and availability permit, reducing the need for LNA gain and thus minimizing the dc power dissipation at each element. Finally, the WDM-based PTTD beamformer architecture will minimize the hardware required for two-dimensional beamforming.