Future trends in crosslink communications

Wayne R. Fenner

doi:10.1117/12.149229

6 August 1993 Future trends in crosslink communications

Wayne R. Fenner

Proceedings Volume 1866, Free-Space Laser Communication Technologies V; (1993) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.149229
Event: OE/LASE'93: Optics, Electro-Optics, and Laser Applications in Scienceand Engineering, 1993, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Lasers are now over thirty years old. In the years immediately following their first demonstration many potential uses were postulated and communications was at or near the top of most lists. Indeed, simple communication demonstrations using lasers were the stock-in- trade of many laboratory open houses during the '60s and '70s. However, as is often the case with new discoveries, much ancillary development must occur before the potential can be usefully exploited in practical systems--and this has certainly been the case with communications via laser beams. I personally believe that all of the pieces exist for practical space laser communication systems. However, funding constraints and the existence of a mature microwave (RF) technology base have contributed to a slow acceptance of laser crosslinks in space.

Citation Download Citation

Wayne R. Fenner "Future trends in crosslink communications", Proc. SPIE 1866, Free-Space Laser Communication Technologies V, (6 August 1993); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.149229

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