DMD Based Omnidirectional Optical Anteena

Free space optical communication systems offer many advantages over radio frequency (RF) systems in satellite communication. However, it is much harder to point, and acquisition from the other distant space terminals is more difficult. The pointing mechanism would require high speed, high precision angular actuators to maintain the relative angular position would be complex and costly. Recognizing the needs for satellite-UAV link as well as the conflicts in free space optical communication system design, InterScience proposes to develop an Digital Micromirror Devices (DMD) based omnidirectional optical turret with very low PSR and multi-link capabilities for satellite-UAV and UAV-UAV interconnection applications. The omnidirectional optical system is based in part on existing InterScience omnidirectional imaging technology developed for surveillance applications. The innovative omnidirectional optics makes multi-link connections possible and eliminates the gimbal's mechanical movements. The DMD is used as Lyot stops to select passing beams to perform the point and track functionalities. The unique combination of omnidirectional optics and the DMD provides a very small PSR value in selected directions. The Phase I effort will focus on the optical design, analysis and optimization of the omnidirectional optical system, optical performance modeling of the DMD and a bench top demonstration of the afocal distortion free omnidirectional optics with DMD based anti-jam Lyot stops. The proposed Phase I effort will provide the necessary foundation for full scale prototype development and testing in Phase II.