Multibeam Optical Head for Satellite Laser Communications

The goal of this Phase II SBIR is to investigate using an electronic beam steering device in place of a gimbaled mirror to produce multiple beams for satellite communication links. The two principle thrusts associated with this goal are maturation of the Optical Phased Array (OPA) component technology and specification of component/terminal requirements for implementation in a multi-access lasercom system. The OPA maturation will emphasize developing the technology to produce a modular component that can be used by systems integrators. The design study will define the terminal subsystem based on physical constraints, tracking and acquisition requirements and multi-link optical communications requirements. The study is expected to produce subsystem requirements, technical performance metrics and a recommended architecture.