Covert MWIR Laser Transmitter

Phase I of the program allowed researching the feasibility of covert and ultrafast communication technologies and to lay grounds for a MWIR laser and ultrafast polarization modulator development. BEAM Co.’s approach to the development relies on the following principles: Using circular polarized light due to its superior signal persistence in real-world fog environment Modulating the handedness of circular polarization with, particularly, liquid crystal based ultrafast switches Multiplexing communication channels by orbital momentum of light that has proven capable of Tbit levels Using the fourth-generation optical components for high contrast detection and analysis Developing high power MWIR lasers utilizing novel rare earth based active media and beam combining principles. The technical objectives of the Phase II program include: (1) development of a solid state laser with an output wavelength near 4 µm suitable for FSOC with an average power of >5 W; (2) development of an ultrafast  modulation technique and multiplexing technique capable of allowing data rates of >1 Gbit/s; and (3) integration of the laser source and modulator and multiplexer into a transceiver for performance testing. Development of the laser transmitter includes identification and procurement of the laser medium; identification and procurement of the optical pumping diodes for the laser resonator; integration of these major items into a transmitter assembly and demonstration of laser beam quality sufficient for long-range and efficient FSOC. Development of the ultrafast modulator includes identification of the modulation technology; identification of the optimal materials and components to be used for the modulator and multiplexer; and demonstration of the capability of the combination of modulator and multiplexer to support data rates of >1 Gbit/s. Integration of the laser source with the modulator and multiplexer includes demonstration of the capability of the modulator and multiplexer to perform their functions in conjunction with a laser transmitter having a power output of > 5W; fabrication of a demodulator and receiver for communications demonstrations; and demonstration of optical communications at a data rate of >1 Gbit/s. A MWIR covert optical communications breadboard demonstrator will be delivered as the outcome of the development.