High-Bandwidth, Compact Free-Space Optical Communications Using Adaptive Optics

The objective of the project is to develop a small, very-high bandwidth optical communications link for the Missile Defense Agency for data telemetry during missile tests. AOptix Technologies has developed a novel Free Space Optical communication systemthat uses Adaptive Optics to dynamically correct atmospheric aberrations that result from turbulence and scintillation. By correcting these optical distortions, AOptix is able to build multi-gigabit performance, all-optical, long-range FSO systems. TheseFSO systems are inherently secure because the light beam is precisely controlled and collimated to fill the receiver aperture. AOptix Technologies will adapt its terrestrial FSO system to meet the MDA's requirements for a long-range, high-speed, secure,compact communications technology that can be flown on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles during test launches. Multi-gigabit, multi-wavelength Free Space Optical Communications capability will break the information access bottleneck. AOptix's highly collimated beamassures the highest degree of security for optical through-air data transmissions. Other military applications exist in ground-to-air, ground-to-space, air-to-space, ship-to-ship, ship-to-air and ship-to-shore. Commercial applications exist in areas thatrequire long-distance, high-capacity telecommunications links such as cellular phone traffic backhaul.