CubeCat
Laser communication is considered a key enabler for future high data communications between satellites, aerial vehicles, and ground stations. For successful laser communication over several thousands of kilometers distance, pointing of the laser beam between the transmitter and the receiver needs to be controlled with a precision down to a few microradians.
The FSM product is specially designed for laser communication to enable this level of precision pointing.
Within a laser communication terminal, a tracking sensor controls the pointing. The sensor measures the incoming angle of the received light from the partnering terminal. Based on these readings, a Coarse Pointing Assembly (CPA) together with the FSM correct high-frequency misalignments. In addition, a second FSM provides information on the Point Ahead Angle (PAA), enabling the laser communication terminal to compensate for the “time of flight” – or the time it takes for the laser beam to arrive at the receiving end.
The FSM is a versatile product. Although in its essence a fast-tip tilt mirror, it can also be used in other applications.
