Development and system optimization of free space laser communication terminal

Because society's demands are always growing, and Radio Frequency (RF) satellite communication systems have about reached their limit, alternative forms of communications are constantly being explored. One extremely hopefully alternative is laser or optical communication systems. Lasers operate at frequencies seven or eight times higher than typical RF systems, providing higher bandwidth, less beam divergence, and smaller antennas. Moreover, the very high-peak power pulses typical of laser transmitters allows for high data rates. These are significant advantages for satellite communications. In this paper, we review the recent advances made, including USA, Japan, and Europe. bring forward key technology and trend, and system optimization method of optical terminal is also Discussed.