Optical Antennas

International Telemetering Conference Proceedings / November 14-16, 1978 / Hyatt House Hotel, Los Angeles, CaliforniaOptical communication systems have the capability to transmit very high data rates (1-Gbps) over long distances. One primary reason is the narrow beamwidths achievable with optical antennas having diameters of less than 30 cm. This paper discusses how the Gaussian beam patterns of the laser sources are modified as they are transmitted through physically realizable optical antennas. Measurements taken on an optical antenna developed for spaceborne operation are presented and compared with theoretical predictions. Optical receiver antennas are also discussed stressing the differences between direct and heterodyne detection. Finally, consideration is given to the privacy and jamming resistance of optical communication systems using these small optical antennas.International Foundation for TelemeteringProceedings from the International Telemetering Conference are made available by the International Foundation for Telemetering and the University of Arizona Libraries. Visit http://www.telemetry.org/index.php/contact-us if you have questions about items in this collection