VESCENT TECHNOLOGIES INC. — National Aeronautics and Space Administration SBIR Phase I: H9.01

Description

In this SBIR program we will design, test, and deliver ultra-low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) Micro-Laser Communications (MiLC) modules for high bandwidth (> Gbps) free-space data links. These modules will be enabled by Vescent's proprietary and unprecedented electro-optic (EO), non-mechanical laser beamsteerers (up to a 120o x 120o field-of-view possible). Eliminating all moving parts will dramatically reduce SWaP and cost, increase lifetime and reliability, and simplify the system design of lasercom modules. High bandwidth communication links are needed between satellites and ground stations, inter-satellite, and from ground based rovers to satellites. One possible lasercom module will fit within a few cubic inch volume, require less than 1 watt of power and be able to provide ground station tracking (including orbital motion over wide angles and jitter correction) with no moving parts. As advanced scientific instruments burden data loads and spacecraft payloads become increasingly valuable, to keep the information flowing becomes even more challenging. Providing a solution to this problem is the focus of this effort.