Optical Filter for Submarine Laser Communications Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-067 Topic Title: Optical Filter for Submarine Laser Communications Proposal No.: N091-067-1071 Firm: Nova Photonics, Inc. One Oak Place Princeton, New Jersey 08540-4701 Contact: Fred Levinton Phone: (609) 258-5631 Web Site: www.novaphotonics.com Abstract: Nova Photonics proposes to design an optical filter that will be tailored specifically to the submarine-laser communication application. The filter will be tunable/reconfigurable to operate at a set of chosen wavelengths within the 450 nm to 550 nm range. It will feature a field-of-view and bandpass that are optimized to take advantage of solar dark bands and available laser technology. It will have a large aperture and high transmission. Benefits: This optical filter can be used as part of a submarine/laser communication system that will enable high-data rate communications with submarines at speed and depth. Beyond this application, the features of the filter that make it optimal for this application are also advantageous for other systems which require sensitive detection and selectivity of light transmitted through seawater. These include airborne laser mine detection, marine mammal detection, and anti-submarine warfare within the Navy. Homeland security applications include video harbor monitoring, and commercial applications include monitoring of submerged platforms. Return