Radiation-Resistant Optical Fiber Amplifiers For Satellite Communications

As key building blocks in laser communication terminals and telecom photonic payloads, optical fiber amplifiers are used to enable high-data rates and secure free-space optical links with reduced mass, size, and electrical power consumption requirements compared to traditional RF technology. This white paper presents and discusses 1.55 μm booster amplifiers and pre-amplifiers that are suitable for satellite to ground, inter-satellite links, and flexible photonic payloads. Their designs are validated in the relevant space environment by characterizing the performance against ionizing radiation and report on functional performance of the amplifiers over temperature, in thermal vacuums, and after vibration and mechanical shock. Download the full white paper for more information.