Gimbal-Free Wavelength-Division-Multiplexing Free Space Optical Communication (WDMFSO) for Ocean Surface Transceivers Navy SBIR FY2012.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.2 Topic No.: N122-116 Topic Title: Gimbal-Free Wavelength-Division-Multiplexing Free Space Optical Communication (WDMFSO) for Ocean Surface Transceivers Proposal No.: N122-116-0998 Firm: Wavefront 7 Johnston Circle BASKING RIDGE, New Jersey 07920 Contact: Jie Yao Phone: (609) 558-4806 Web Site: www.wavefrontLLC.us Abstract: Lasercom, namely, free-space optical (FSO) communication, has many advantages over the traditional RF communication channels widely used in military communications. Some notable advantages of lasercom are no need for licensing for frequency allocation, immunity to radio frequency interference, and low probability of interception and detection. The biggest disadvantage of lasercom, however, is its requirement of point-to-point and line-of-the-sight configuration between optical transceivers. Pointing and tracking via gimbal systems as well as other mechanical tuning of orientation and pointing are often required. We propose an optical WDMFSO system with mature WDM system architecture, resulting in (i) NO gimbal, and (ii) NO pointing and tracking. During Phase I, we will design, fabricate and characterize infrared photo-detectors for application in the WDMFSO system. We will also experimentally prove the concept of the WDMFSO system at reduced distance scales within the laboratory. In Phase II, we will further optimize the photo-detector technology based on the feedback from Phase 1 experiments, and fully prototype and develop a complete WDMFSO system for field testing. During Phase III, we will manufacture and market the WDMFSO system as well as for our commercial medical device products. Benefits: Besides applications to long-range line-of-sight free-space optical communication systems, the proposed Photon Counting Integrated Circuit (PCIC) is ideal for military surveillance and target recognition under low light levels of passive or active illumination, scientific instruments, biomedical imaging, ecosystem monitoring and protection, wildlife conservation, manufacturing quality control, and space weather forecasting. Return