NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
A New Laser Beam Pointing Method Using Laser ArraysA new method is described for optical data transmissions from satellites using laser arrays for laser beam pointing. It combines a lens system and a VCSEL/Photodetector Array, both mature technologies, in a novel way. This system is applied to satellites in LEO. It can replace current architectures which use dynamical systems, (i.e., moving parts) to point the laser, and which use vibration isolation platforms. Results of computer simulations show diffraction limited beam propagation. Possible additional applications are to planetary distances (deep space optical communications, DSOC) to optical multiple access, to communication between a constellation of close satellites, and to satellites that use modulating retro-reflectors.
Document ID
20190002843
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Technical Memorandum (TM)
Authors
Goorjian, Peter M.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
April 30, 2019
Publication Date
November 1, 2018
Subject Category
Optics
Report/Patent Number
NASA/TM-2018-58815
ARC-E-DAA-TN63799
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Portions of document may include copyright protected material.
No Preview Available