Laser Communication System with Spatial Tracking for Moving Platforms

"Coherent Technologies Inc. (CTI) proposes to develop a laser communication system (LCS) coupled with a high-speed pointing and tracking scheme for greater than 1 Gb/s data rate applications in a battlefield environment. The LCS will provide eyesafeoperation with an engagement range up to 5 km between two moving platforms. The pointing and tracking unit will be designed to reduce the probability of data link breakdown due to traveling on a rough terrain. The approach will capitalize upon innovativescanner designs developed by CTI for military laser radar systems and the advancing scanning mirror technologies such as Micro-Opto-Electrical-Mechanical Systems (MOEMS). The baseline architecture uses a 1.5-mm transmitter optimally coupled to amicro-mirror assembly. Three potential configurations for tracking in a highly dynamic environment are envisaged. System-level performance analyses will assess the cost effectiveness and field worthiness of competing optical source technologies besideslaser diodes. The Phase I effort will, (1) generate system level signal-to-noise ratio assessments for 1.5 micron wavelength data link, (2) establish closed-loop pointing and tracking scheme with link broadcast capability providing maximum covertness, and(3) develop a proof-of-principle prototype and execute risk reduction measurements to ensure technical and cost feasibility for field-worthy hardware implementation in Phase II. Potential applications in