Diode-Laser Transmitter Development for Space-Based Heterodyne Communication

摘要

An optical transmitter, based on four redundant 30-mW GaAlAs diode lasers operating at 0.86 micrometer, is being developed for an experiment in space-based heterodyne communication. Key optical, mechanical, and electrical components of the transmitter have been fabricated and tested in prototype form. A module which includes the laser, collimator, and electronics has been assembled which yields a wavefront quality of better than lambda/30 over a 24 C temperature range. The laser and its four-element collimator have been shaken independently at 49 g (rms) without degradation in performance. The transmitter will weigh less than 2.3 kg and consume less than 4.2 W during normal operation. (RH)