Ship-to-Ship High-Bandwidth, Secure Free-Space Optical Communications Using Adaptive Optics

AOptix Technologies proposes to build and demonstrate a laser communication system that uses adaptive optics to mitigate atmospheric turbulence. Lasercom systems require accurate pointing capability to direct the narrow optical beam and compensate for platform vibration and jitter. In AOptix lasercom systems, adaptive optics (AO) techniques are employed to accomplish this as well as compensate for atmospheric scintillation, another factor critical to successful system operation. In Phase I, a prototype unit was demonstrated operating 10 miles across Chesapeake Bay. Phase II objectives include increasing the closed-loop bandwidth of the AO system to improve performance and link budget. Semi-automated beam acquisition and tracking functionality will also be a significant addition to the system capability. These developments will be accomplished by new designs at both the component and system level. Ship simulation tests and transmission over long distances will be included in the testing program.