Paul Sibley, Space Environment Research Centre (SERC Limited) and the Australian National University (ANU), Robert L. Ward, Space Environment Research Centre (SERC Limited), Lyle E. Roberts, Space Environment Research Centre (SERC Limited), Samuel P. Francis, Space Environment Research Centre (SERC Limited) and ANU, Simon Gross, Macquarie University, Daniel A. Shaddock, Space Environment Research Centre (SERC Limited) and ANU
Keywords: Optical Phased Array, Fiber Optical Head, Waveguide, Microlens Array
Abstract:
The optical phased array (OPA) system with internal phase sensing architecture being developed at the Australian National University has direct applications in tracking and manoeuvring of space debris from a ground-based continuous wave laser. The future effectiveness of this system is dependent on providing a high fill-factor for the emitter array as well as a collimated output in the far field. This is especially important when aiming for high power density incident on space debris and is currently governed by an unmodified single mode fiber to air interface at the final stage of the system. This research investigates the incorporation of a number of alternative optical head configurations, based on an output remapping waveguide. The waveguide will allow for control over the emitter separation, a key parameter in controlling the beam overlap and increasing the emitter fill factor. A remapping waveguide is designed for development with the 3D laser inscription process for a range of spatial configurations. Consideration is also given to a phase ambiguity issue with the feedback architecture and demonstration of the Gaussian Beam propagation simulations to which the experimental results will be compared is given.
Date of Conference: September 20-23, 2016
Track: Poster