Retromodulator for optical tagging for LEO consumables

• Published in: 2001 IEEE Aerospace Conference Proceedings (Cat. No.01TH8542) Vol. 3; pp. 3/1531 - 3/1539 vol.3
• Main Authors: Gilbreath, G.C., Meehan, T.J., Rabinovich, W.S., Vilcheck, M.J., Mahon, R., Ferraro, M., Vasquez, J.A., Sokolsky, I., Katzer, D.C., Ikosi-Anastasiou, K., Goetz, P.G.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 2001
• Subjects: Detectors; Diode lasers; Laser beams; Laser modes; Low earth orbit satellites; Optical arrays; Optical modulation; Quantum well devices; Space technology; Tagging
• ISBN: 0780365992; 9780780365995
• ISSN: 1095-323X
• DOI: 10.1109/AERO.2001.931384

We report the results of a recent demonstration in which a MQW retromodulator array was used as a low power, lightweight means to provide optical tagging of a remotely located object. A laser diode integrated on a tracker/pointing system scanned without cueing for a modulated retroreflected beam. The retroreflected energy was received and the embedded code demodulated for tagging identification. Ranges were on the order of 40 meters using an array of 1/2 cm MQW devices. Data were transferred at a rate of one mega chip per second over the link. Device power requirements were of the order of several milliwatts.