Laser Communication System With Spatial Tracking for movable platforms

Coherent technologies, Inc. (CTI) proposes to design and build a compact, eyesafe, free-space laser communication system (LCS) with novel high speed tracking and scanning unit with greater than 200 Mb/s data rate for mobile platforms in a battle fieldenvironment. The novel LCS will provide eyesafe operation with a laser engagement range up to 5 km and demonstrate potential for significantly greater ranges. The close-loop tracking unit will be designed to reduce the probability of data link breakdowndue to travelling on rough terrain with vehicular speeds up to 5 km.. The approach will capitalize upon innovative scanner designs developed by CTI for military laser radar systems, and the advancing micro-mirror and MOEMS technologies. The baseline schemeis a 1.5-mm optical source coupled to a high-speed micro-optical scanner designed for optimum performance. System-level performance analyses will assess the cost-effectiveness and field-worthiness of the final design architecture along with competingtechnologies. The Phase II effort will (1) develop and test a novel high speed scanner, (2) design and implement necessary hardware and software for close-loop tracking system for LCS, (3) establish quantitative comparisons of the competing scannertechnologies, and (4) perform risk reduction measurements to ensure technical feasibility and low cost.Enhance troop communication effectiveness, enhance battle field awareness, eyesafe short range vehicle collision avoidance sensors, search and rescuelaser beacons, combat ID, data transmission for high definition TV.