Abstract: An acquisition, pointing, and tracking (ATP) apparatus for free space optical (FSO) communications systems incorporates a multi-element detector array positioned at a focal plane of an optical telescope. An optical communications element lies at the center of the detector array. In lieu of traditional beam steering, the apparatus performs pointing and tracking functions internally by first calculating a position of an optical maximum on the detector array, and then translating the detector array within the focal plane of the telescope such that the optical communications element lies at the optical maximum for transmitting and/or receiving optical communications signals.

Abstract: A communications system made up of a number of multi-channel optical node (MCON) platforms uses free space optical communications terminals that have the ability to track, detect, measure, and respond to the acceleration or movement of the platform. Instead of using mirrors or traditional beam steering techniques, the platform uses a series of telecentric lens systems to re-align the focal plane such that beams are maintained in original pointing directions. A network of control systems is used to detect and measure movement of the platform, to re-align the platform after such movement, and to maintain connection with a number of other MCON platforms.

Abstract: A communications system made up of a number of multi-channel optical node (MCON) platforms uses free space optical communications terminals that have the ability to track, detect, measure, and respond to the acceleration or movement of the platform. Instead of using mirrors or traditional beam steering techniques, the platform uses a series of telecentric lens systems to re-align the focal plane such that beams are maintained in original pointing directions. A network of control systems is used to detect and measure movement of the platform, to re-align the platform after such movement, and to maintain connection with a number of other MCON platforms.

Abstract: A space vehicle has a frame with a configuration of fiber optic gyroscopes (FOGs) and control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) at the outer perimeter of the frame. The FOGs and CMGs provide guidance and control for the space vehicle. This arrangement results in the largest possible FOG and CMG diameters, and therefore yielding the highest signal sensitivities and precision inertial control of vehicle orientation and pointing. Because the configuration places these guidance and control system components at the perimeter of the vehicle, it also provides a platform for multi-aperture signal channels in the interior of the vehicle by freeing up volume within the vehicle.

Abstract: An acquisition, pointing, and tracking (ATP) apparatus for free space optical (FSO) communications systems incorporates a multi-element detector array positioned at a focal plane of an optical telescope. An optical communications element lies at the center of the detector array. In lieu of traditional beam steering, the apparatus performs pointing and tracking functions internally by first calculating a position of an optical maximum on the detector array, and then translating the detector array within the focal plane of the telescope such that the optical communications element lies at the optical maximum for transmitting and/or receiving optical communications signals.

Abstract: A system and method in the field of free space optical communications (FSOC) for overcoming atmospheric-induced spatial optical signal variations operates within each of two FSOC terminals that make up a bi-directional FSOC link, with each terminal providing the rapid adaptive beam path method over a much wider field of view than typically used for adaptive optical techniques. Each terminal uses a real-time adaptive beam-steering technique that continuously measures optical power and optical power gradients by the receiver optical detectors; this data is sent to a control system that automatically responds by re-aligning the optical system accordingly by maximizing the optical signal power measured by the optical power receiving detector.

Abstract: A space vehicle has a frame with a configuration of fiber optic gyroscopes (FOGs) and control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) at the outer perimeter of the frame. The FOGs and CMGs provide guidance and control for the space vehicle. This arrangement results in the largest possible FOG and CMG diameters, and therefore yielding the highest signal sensitivities and precision inertial control of vehicle orientation and pointing. Because the configuration places these guidance and control system components at the perimeter of the vehicle, it also provides a platform for multi-aperture signal channels in the interior of the vehicle by freeing up volume within the vehicle.

Abstract: A targeting and tracking apparatus and method for optical transceivers is disclosed. The tracking function is performed internally by way of translating an internal optical fiber in the focal plane of the transceiver telescope using miniature motorized translation systems and/or micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The optical design of the transceiver provides a wide field of view and a pointing and tracking field of regard that is directly proportional to the translation of the optical fiber in the focal plane of the telescope. The apparatus and method can eliminate the need for external gimballing systems and scanning mirrors, and replace the gimballed optical beam steering function with motorized translation systems and/or MEMS that consumes very little power.

Abstract: A beam steering apparatus and method for free space optical transceivers is disclosed. The beam steering function is performed internally by way of translating an internal optical fiber in the focal plane of the transceiver telescope using miniature micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). The optical design of the transceiver provides a wide field of view and a pointing and tracking field of regard that is directly proportional to the translation of the optical fiber in the focal plane of the telescope. The apparatus and method can eliminate the need for external gimballing systems, and replace the gimballed free space optical beam steering function with MEMS that consumes very little power.