Flexible Agile Optical-RF Antenna System

"This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project deals with a unique photonic beamforming approach that allows truely flexible and agile control of a joint optical-radio frequency phased array antenna. The novel beamformer system rapidly adapts tothe mission and operational/environmental scenario allowing agile control of the radio frequency antenna and the optical antenna. Phased array antenna beam steering control is provided with full capability and a diverse range of antenna frontends operatingat diverse frequencies in the electromagnetic spectrum. Both transmission and reception modes are possible for the joint optical-radio frequency system in a compact optical module. Phase I research will concentrate on the basic proposed module controlsconcept, architecture, and its proof of concept experimental demonstration. Groundwork will be laid to indicate technical concept feasibility that will lead to a Phase II plan for prototyping and development. Apart from use in battlespace RF and opticalsensor environments, the proposed joint optical-radio frequency antenna system, with the capability of agile and flexible beamforming, can be used in: (a) commercial laser radar systems, (b) mobile phased array communication systems, (c) commercial opticalwireless links, (d) commercial aircrafts and automobiles, and (e) space astronomical arrays."