Laser Communications Terminals
Laser Communications Terminals
Over the last decade AOA Xinetics has developed free space optical communications terminals with compact atmospheric compensation systems for both horizontal and slant path laser communications systems. These include both ground based and airborne implementations. In addition to the use of traditional adaptive optics techniques, AOA Xinetics has developed and demonstrated several stochastic adaptive optics approaches that address the problems of severe turbulence along the beam path. To support these efforts, AOA has developed an extensive suite of beam propagation simulation tools. 
Development programs have included
- Horizontal path free-space laser communication test bed. (Optical Comm Link over San Diego Bay)
- ORCLE - Optical/RF Combined Link Experiment (DARPA) - Development of free space optical communications terminals with atmospheric compensation.
- Atmosphere/Aero-Optic Effects Modelling and Simulation Program
Capabilities include
- Wavefront Sensor design and fabrication
- Atmospheric compensation by means of traditional closed loop AO system
- Non-traditional AO techniques for fade mitigation and range extension
- Integration of a wide variety of DM's as well as other active elements including OPA's
- Atmospheric modeling capability to simulate communications link including transceivers and vehicle platform characteristics
For additional information about about laser communication systems contact
Terry Bruno
Business Area Manager – Intelligent Optics
AOA Xinetics
Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems
115 Jackson Road
Devens, MA 01432
Phone: 978-757-9483
E-mail: Terry.Bruno@ngc.com