Optical phased array antennas for free space laser communications

Walter R. Leeb; Wolfgang M. Neubert; Klaus H. Kudielka; Arpad L. Scholtz

doi:10.1117/12.188133

30 September 1994 Optical phased array antennas for free space laser communications

Walter R. Leeb, Wolfgang M. Neubert, Klaus H. Kudielka, Arpad L. Scholtz

Proceedings Volume 2210, Space Optics 1994: Space Instrumentation and Spacecraft Optics; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.188133
Event: Space Optics '94, 1994, Garmisch, Germany

Abstract

The principle of phased array microwave antennas can be applied at optical frequencies. The far-field antenna pattern is found by spatial Fourier transform of the optical field distribution across the subaperture plane. Inertia-free antenna pattern steering can be accomplished by proper phasing of the subaperture waves. A tolerance analysis shows that the required accuracy of phase relationship and subantenna alignment can be obtained in practice when implementing control loops. We develop schemes for both transmit and receive array antennas. Experiments carried out at (lambda) equals 1.06 micrometers demonstrated both modes of operation. Optical array antennas may be applied advantageously for fine pointing in intersatellite data links and in space lidar systems.

Citation Download Citation

Walter R. Leeb, Wolfgang M. Neubert, Klaus H. Kudielka, and Arpad L. Scholtz "Optical phased array antennas for free space laser communications", Proc. SPIE 2210, Space Optics 1994: Space Instrumentation and Spacecraft Optics, (30 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.188133

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