Nonmechanical laser beam steering/beam spoiling methods for intersatellite cross links

Paul J. Oleski; Kevin W. Dorrian; Timothy E. Busch

doi:10.1117/12.184659

16 August 1994 Nonmechanical laser beam steering/beam spoiling methods for intersatellite cross links

Paul J. Oleski, Kevin W. Dorrian, Timothy E. Busch

Proceedings Volume 2123, Free-Space Laser Communication Technologies VI; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184659
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

In the area of free space optical communications a significant amount of attention has been given to the overall problems of the acquisition and tracking of satellites. Accomplishing these functions with minimal investment in hardware size, weight, and power is essential to the successful evolution of space laser communications (LASERCOM). This paper studies and compares two different types of nonmechanical laser beam steering/diverging devices. A nematic liquid crystal phased array has been tested and compared to an acousto-optic Bragg cell. Both electro-optic devices are capable of simultaneous laser beam spoiling and steering which will provide an alternative to the use of electromechanical hardware for acquisition, fine tracking and point ahead in LASERCOM terminals. Characteristics such as optical efficiency, response time, beam steer range and divergence and power consumption have been measured. Device design and performance parameters are described.

Citation Download Citation

Paul J. Oleski, Kevin W. Dorrian, and Timothy E. Busch "Nonmechanical laser beam steering/beam spoiling methods for intersatellite cross links", Proc. SPIE 2123, Free-Space Laser Communication Technologies VI, (16 August 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184659

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available