Determining the Feasibility of Non Line-of-Sight Laser Communication

Northrop Grumman Space Technology Engineering, 2002-03

Liaison(s): John Brock
Advisor(s): Sam Tanenbaum
Students(s): Christina Stratton (PM), Justin Schauer, Zamir Lalji, Gene Lee, Evan Porter

The feasibility of non-line-of-sight laser communication is investigated using a link budget that enables one to predict the performance and the sensitivity of laser communications links under a variety of operating conditions. The atmospheric models and computer programs used to predict light transmission and scattering efficiencies in the link budget are described, and the accuracy of the link budget is evaluated by comparing its predictions with preliminary experimental results obtained by the team.