Free-Space Laser Communication

Course guarantor:

Lecturer:

Tutor:

Supervisor:

Department of Cybernetics

Synopsis:

Introduction to the phenomena related to optical communications. The course spans over the fundamental concepts necessary for understanding design and performance of free-space laser communication systems. Starting from transmission and reception of optical energy, it presents the analysis of the overall link budget, including the effects of laser and detector technologies, acquisition, tracking, and atmospheric distortions. Technology issues and alternatives pertinent to the design of high-data-rate systems are also addressed.

Requirements:

Familiarity with electromagnetic theory, basic concepts of optics and electronics, elementary differential equations, and fundamental principles of communications theory.

Syllabus of lectures:

1.Optical Communication Systems

2.Optical Field Reception

3.Photodetection

4.Direct Detection

5.Heterodyne Detection

6.Optical Digital Communication

7.Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking.

8.Atmospheric Effects

Syllabus of tutorials:

1.Optical Communication Systems

2.Optical Field Reception

3.Photodetection

4.Direct Detection

5.Heterodyne Detection

6.Optical Digital Communication

7.Pointing, Acquisition, and Tracking.

8.Atmospheric Effects

Study Objective:

Study materials:

R. Gagliardi and S. Karp, Optical Communications. ISBN 0-471-54287-3

S. Lambert and W. Casey, Laser Communications in Space. ISBN 0-89006-722-8

G. Agarwal, Fiber-Optic Communication Systems. ISBN 0-471-21571-6

G. Osche, Optical Detection Theory. ISBN 0-471-22411-1

H. Willebrand and B. Ghuman, Free-Space Optics. ISBN 0-672-32248-x

Note:

Further information:

No time-table has been prepared for this course

The course is a part of the following study plans: