Laser Modulator.

The objective of this program was to design, fabricate, and evaluate a compact space qualifiable laser modulator for use in a satellite communications system. The modulator is to be used to modulate the 300 Mpps output from a mode-locked NdYAG laser operating at 0.53 micrometers. The program included an optical and electrical design phase, a fabrication phase, and an evaluation phase. The approach taken exploited the properties of lithium tantalate as the electrooptic material for the laser modulator. The modulator development was directed toward eventual satellite use. Therefore, size, weight, power consumption, and reliability were stressed throughout the program. The program culminated in a deliverable space qualifiable modulator unit which included an optics head, modulator driver, temperature controller, automatic electronic compensator, manual compensator, and the required power supplies. Author