Compact optical antennas using free-form surface optics for ultrahigh-speed laser communication systems

Koichi Takahashi; Yoshinori Arimoto

doi:10.1117/1.2831669

1 January 2008 Compact optical antennas using free-form surface optics for ultrahigh-speed laser communication systems

Koichi Takahashi, Yoshinori Arimoto

Author Affiliations +

Optical Engineering, Vol. 47, Issue 1, 016002 (January 2008). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.2831669

Abstract

It is envisioned that the next generation of ultrahigh-speed laser communication systems will utilize compact optical antennas equipped with advanced beam tracking and effective fiber coupling mechanisms. Such laser communication systems will be used not only for space communications but also to provide optical links for long-distance terrestrial communications. We present the design of a high-speed laser communication system developed utilizing compact optical antennas with off-axis free-form surface (FFS) mirrors. We describe FFS optical devices and their design contribution in realizing compact optical antennas. Furthermore, an innovative fiber coupling device made from a glass ferrule and fiber is introduced, and with this device it is possible to couple the laser beam seamlessly to a single-mode fiber. We also present a fine tracking mechanism that uses a miniature fine pointing mirror (FPM) incorporated in the antenna. The machanism functions by feeding back the incident angle of the signal detected by a quadrant detector (QD) to the FPM. The achievable actuator response frequency for tracking is approximately 2 kHz, and it has been demonstrated to effectively mitigate the effects of laser beam angle-of-arrival fluctuation as a result of atmospheric turbulence.

©(2008) Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)

Citation Download Citation

Koichi Takahashi and Yoshinori Arimoto "Compact optical antennas using free-form surface optics for ultrahigh-speed laser communication systems," Optical Engineering 47(1), 016002 (1 January 2008). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.2831669

Published: 1 January 2008

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