Cover photo: SCaN testbed under GRC 

thermal vacuum testing.

Cover photo: Laser Communication Relay

Demonstration (LCRD).
—I—

NASA’s mission to pave the future of space exploration through innovations 

in science and technology is reflected in a balanced technology development 

and maturation program supported by all NASA Mission Directorates. 

Stimulating technology innovation through Small Business Innovation 

Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, NASA 

has empowered U.S. small businesses to make significant contributions to 

the future of space exploration. 

This technology investment portfolio highlights SBIR Phases I and II 

investments in optical communications technology development for the 

Space Operations Mission Directorate (SOMD)/Human Exploration and 

Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) from 2005 to 2014. This report 

summarizes technology challenges addressed and advances made by the 

SBIR community in optical communications technology. The goal of this 

document is to encourage program and project managers, stakeholders, 

and prime contractors to take advantage of these technology advancements 

to leverage their own efforts and to help facilitate infusion of technology 

advancements into future NASA projects. A description of NASA’s SBIR 

Program can be found at www.sbir.nasa.gov. 

Foreword
—II—

Small Busin

Innovation Resea
—III—

The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program provides opportunities for small hightechnology companies to participate in Government-sponsored research and development efforts 

in key technology areas of interest to NASA. The SBIR Program provides significant sources of seed 

funding to foster technology innovation. The SBIR Phase I contracts are awarded for 6 months with 

funding up to $125,000; Phase II contracts are awarded for 24 months with funding up to $750,000. 
—IV—

Human Exploratio
—V—

The Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate (HEOMD) is chartered with the development 

of core transportation elements, key systems, and enabling technologies required for beyond-low-Earthorbit (LEO) human exploration that will provide the foundation for the next half-century of American 

leadership in space exploration.

This new space exploration era starts with increasingly challenging test missions in cislunar space, 

including flights to the Lagrange points, followed by human missions to near-Earth asteroids (NEAs), 

the Moon, the moons of Mars, and Mars as part of a sustained journey of exploration in the inner 

solar system. HEOMD was formed in 2011 by combining the Space Operations Mission Directorate 

(SOMD) and the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate (ESMD) to optimize the elements, systems, 

and technologies of the precursor directorates to the maximum extent possible. 

HEOMD mission goals include key technology developments in Space Communications and Navigation, 

Space Transportation, Human Research and Health Maintenance, Radiation Protection, Life Support 

and Habitation, High-Efficiency Space Power Systems, and Ground Processing/International Space 

Station (ISS) Utilization. 

HEOMD looks forward to incorporating SBIR-developed technologies into current and future systems 

to contribute to the expansion of humanity across the solar system while providing continued costeffective space access and operations for its customers, with a high standard of safety, reliability, and 

affordability. 

and

Operations Mis

Directorat
—VI—

SCaN: Keeping t

SCaN Notional Integrated Network Archite
—VII—

Universe Connec

Program and Technology Development 

The Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program resides within HEOMD and is responsible for the development of 

technologies and capabilities to support all current and future NASA missions. The SCaN Program provides the communication, 

navigation, and mission science data transfer services that are vital to the successful operation of NASA space flight missions. To 

accomplish this, SCaN operates three networks: the Deep Space Network (DSN), the Near Earth Network (NEN), and the Space 

Network (SN). Combined together, the services and network assets provide capabilities that enable space exploration for over 

100 NASA and non-NASA missions. SCaN also provides scheduling services to new missions through the Network Integration 

Management Office (NIMO) and Deep Space Network Commitment Office (DSNO). 

To accomplish the above, the SCaN Program’s vision is to build and maintain a scalable, integrated, and mission support 

infrastructure that can evolve to accommodate new and changing technologies, while providing comprehensive, robust, 

cost-effective, and exponentially higher data rate services to enable NASA’s science and exploration missions. Today, NASA 

communication and navigation capabilities using radiofrequency technology can support spacecraft to the fringes of the solar 

system and beyond. The anticipated new missions for science and exploration of the universe are expected to challenge the 

current data rates of 300 Mbps in LEO and of 6 Mbps at Mars to rise significantly. The SCaN Program aims to

•	 Develop a SCaN network infrastructure capable of meeting both robotic and human exploration mission needs.

•	 Evolve infrastructure to provide the highest data rates feasible.

•	 Develop internationally interoperable data communications protocols for space missions.

•	 Offer communications and navigation infrastructure for lunar and Mars surfaces.

•	 Offer communications and navigation services to enable lunar and Mars human missions.

SCaN technology development interests include optical communications, advanced antenna technology and Earth stations, 

cognitive networks, access links, reprogrammable communications systems, spacecraft positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), 

and communications in support of launch services. Innovative solutions to operational issues are needed in all of the areas. 

Emphasis is placed on size, weight, and power improvements. All SBIR technologies developed under the SCaN topic area are 

aligned with the SCaN Program technical directions.

This document catalogs SCaN SBIR investments in optical communications technology development from 2005 to 2014.
—VIII—

SBIR Phse I
—IX—

Conte

Optical Communication Technology .

Optical Communication Technology

SBIR Phase I Awards (2005 to 2014) .

Advanced Three-Dimensional (3D) Object Identification System .

OPTRA Inc. (2005)

Three-Dimensional (3D) Visualization System for Tracking and Identification of Objects .

Photon-X, Inc. (2005)

Digital Image-Based Automatic Tracking Capability .

OPTRA, Inc. (2005)

High-Counting Rate Photon Detectors for Space Optical Communications .

aPeak, Inc. (2006) 

Space-Qualifiable 1064-nm Fiber-Based Transmitter for Long-Range Optical Communications .

Fibertek, Inc. (2006)

Hyperspectral Foveated Imaging Sensor for Objects Identification and Tracking .

New Span Optot-Technology Inc. (2006)

Range-Based Auto-Focus (RBAF) . 

Maracel Systems & Software Technologies, LLC (2006)

Spectral Imaging Visualization and Tracking (SPIVAT) System . 

Physical Optics Corporation (2007)

Hyperspectral Imager-Tracker . 

Light Prescriptions Innovators, LLC (2007)

Very Large Solar Rejection Filter for Laser Communication . 

Surface Optics Corporation (2007)

High-Bandwidth Photon-Counting Detectors With Enhanced Near-Infrared Response . 

aPeak, Inc. (2008)

High-Efficiency, High-Power Laser Transmitter for Deep Space Communication . 

Vega Wave Systems, Inc. (2008)

High-Power Uplink Amplifier for Deep Space Communications . 

Optical Engines, Inc. (2009)

High-Performance Negative-Feedback Near-Infrared (NIR) Single-Photon Counting Detectors and Arrays . 

Amplification Technologies, Inc. (2009)

Negative Feedback Avalanche Diode (NFAD) Arrays for Single-Photon Optical Communications . 

Princeton Lightwave, Inc. (2009)

Hole-Initiated-Avalanche, Linear-Mode, Single-Photon-Sensitive Avalanche Photodetector With Reduced Excess Noise and Low Dark

Count Rate . 

Voxtel, Inc. (2010)

Multi-kW Uplink Fiber-Laser Beacon With Agile Signal Format . 

Fibertek, Inc. (2010)

High-Efficiency Data-Rate-Scalable Laser Transmitter for Interplanetary Optical Communication . 

RAM Photonics (2011)

Downlink Fiber Laser Transmitter for Deep Space Communication . 

Fibertek, Inc. (2011)
—X—

SBIR Phse I
—XI—

High-Efficiency Reasonantly Pumped 1550-nm Fiber-Based Laser Transmitter . 

nLight Photonics (2012)

A Miniature Pointing and Tracking Isolation Platform . 

American GNC Corporation (2012)

Vibration Isolation Platform for Long-Range Optical Communications . 

Controlled Dynamics, Inc. (2012)

Compact, Lightweight Isolation Platform (CLIP) . 

Applied Technology Associates (2012)

Large Optical Telescope Based on High-Efficiency Thin-Film Planar Diffractive Optics . 

BEAM Engineering for Advanced Measurements (2014)

High Count Rate Single-Photon Counting Detector Array . 

Voxtel, Inc. (2014)

High Efficeiency and Power Laser Transmitter for Deep Space Communications . 

Freedom Photonics LLC (2014)

20-W High-Efficiency 1550 nm Pulsed Fiber Laser . 

Polaronyx, Inc. (2014)
—XII—

SBIR Phse I
—XIII—

Contents (Conti

Optical Communication Technology

Optical Communication Technology

SBIR Phase II Awards (2005 to 2012) . 

Advanced Automated Debris Tracking and Recognition System . 

OPTRA, Inc. (2005)

Very Large Solar Rejection Filter for Laser Communication . 

Surface Optics Corporation (2007)

High-Bandwidth Photon-Counting Detectors With Enhanced Near-Infrared Response . 

aPeak, Inc. (2008)

High-Efficiency, High-Power Laser Transmitter for Deep Space Communication . 

Vega Wave Systems, Inc. (2008)

High-Power Uplink Amplifier for Deep Space Communication . 

Optical Engines, Inc. (2009)

High-Performance Negative-Feedback near-Infrared (NIR) Single Photon Counting Detectors and Arrays . 

Amplification Technologies, Inc. (2009)

Negative Feedback Avalanche Diode (NFAD) Arrays for Single-Photon Optical Communications at 1.5 mm . 

Princeton Lightwave, Inc. (2009)

Multi-kW Uplink Fiber-Laser Beacon With Agile Signal Format . 

Fibertek, Inc. (2010)

Downlink Fiber Laser Transmitter for Deep Space Communication . 

Fibertek, Inc. (2011)

Isolation Platform for Long-Range Optical Communications . 

Controlled Dynamics, Inc. (2012)

Compact, Lightweight Isolation Platform (CLIP) . 

Applied Technology Associates (2012)

Company Names . 

SBIR Points of Contact . 
—XIV—

O

Technolog

Optical Ground Station
—1—

NASA seeks innovative technologies for long-range Interplanetary Optical Telecommunications supporting the

needs of space missions where robotic explorers will visit distant bodies within the solar system and beyond.

NASA’s goals are increased duplex data-rate capability, along with significant reductions of size, weight and

power (SWAP) consumption at the spacecraft. Proposals are sought in the following areas:

Systems and technologies relating to acquisition, tracking and submicroradian pointing of the optical communications beam

under typical deep space ranges and spacecraft microvibration environment technology readiness level (TRL) 3 at Phase I, and TRL

4 at Phase II).

	 •	 Vibration Isolation and Rejection Platforms and Related Technologies—Compact, lightweight, space qualifiable vibration

isolation and rejection platforms for payloads with a mass between 3 and 20 kg that require less than 5 W of power and have

mass less than 3 kg that will attenuate an integrated spacecraft microvibration angular disturbance of 150 microradians to less

than 0.5 microradians (1-sigma), from <0.1 to ~500 Hz (TRL 3 Phase I and TRL 4 Phase II). Also, innovative low-noise, lowmass, low-power, direct current (DC) kHz inertial, angular, position, or rate sensors. Compact, ultra-low-power, low-mass, kHz

bandwidth, tip-tilt mechanisms with submicroradian pointing accuracies, angular ranges of ±5 mrad and supporting up to 50-

gram payloads.

	 •	 Laser Transmitters—Space-Qualifiable, >25% DC-to-optical (wall-plug) efficiency, 0.2 to 16 ns pulse width 1550-nm laser

transmitter for pulse-position-modulated (PPM) data with random pulses at duty cycles of 0.3% to 6.25%, <35 ps pulse rise and

fall times and jitter, <25% pulse-to pulse energy variation (at a given pulse width) near transform limited spectral width, single

polarization output with at least 20 dB polarization extinction ratio, amplitude extinction ratio greater than 45 dB, average power

of 5 to 20 W, massing less than 500 g/W. Laser transmitter to feature slot-serial PPM data input at CML or alternating current

(AC)-coupled PCEL levels and an RS–422 or USB control port. All power consumed by control electronics will be considered

as part of DC-to-optical efficiency. Also of interest for the laser transmitter is robust and compact packaging with >100-krad

radiation tolerant electronics inherent in the design. Detailed description of approaches to achieve the stated efficiency is a must

(TRL 3 Phase I and TRL 4 Phase II).

	 •	 Photon Counting Near-Infrared Detectors Arrays for Ground Receivers—Readout electronics and close-packed (not lenscoupled) kilo-pixel arrays sensitive to 1520 to 1650 nm wavelength range with single photon detection efficiencies greater

than 90%. Single photon detection jitters less than 40 picoseconds 1-sigma, active diameter greater than 500 microns, 1 dB

saturation rates of at least 10 mega-photons (detected) per pixel, false count rates of less than 1 MHz/square-mm, all at an

operational temperature >1.2 K.

	 •	 Photon Counting Near-Infrared Detectors Arrays for Flight Receivers—64x64 or larger array with read-out integrated circuit

for the 1030 to 1080 nm or 1520 to 1650 nm wavelength range with single-photon detection efficiencies greater than 40% and 1

dB saturation loss rates of at least 2 mega-photons/pixel and operational temperatures above 220 K and dark count rates of <10

MHz/mm. Radiation doses of at least 5 Krad (unshielded) shall result in less than 10% drop in single-photon detection efficiency

and less than 2X increase in dark count rate.

	 •	 Ground-Based TelescopeAssembly—Ground station telescope/photon-bucket technologies for developing effective aperture

diameter of e10 meter at modest cost. Operations wavelength is monochromatic at a wavelength in the range of 1000 to 1600

nm. Key requirements: a maximum image spot size of <20 microradian; capable of operation while pointing to within 5° of the

Sun; and field-of-view of >50 microradian. Telescope shall be positioned with a two-axis gimbal capable of <50 microradian

pointing accuracy, with dynamic error <10 microradian RMS while tracking after tip-tilt correction.

Research should be conducted to convincingly prove technical feasibility (proof-of-concept) during Phase I ideally through

hardware development, with clear pathways to demonstrating and delivering functional hardware, meeting all objectives and

specifications in Phase II.
—2—
—3—

OTICAL COM

SBIR Phse I

2005 to 2014

Lunar Lasercomm Ground Terminal
—4—

ADVANCED Three-Dimensional (3D) OBJECT IDENTI

OPTRA Inc.

2005 Phase I

02.01-7854

Identification and Significance of Innovation

•	 There is a requirement for improved

capabilities to record the initial phase

of spacecraft launches. The goal is to

obtain high-resolution optical data with

the capability of identifying and tracking

multiple objects, down to 1 m2 in area,

along the track of the launch vehicle.

By using multiple cameras and objecttracking algorithms (to be developed) it

will be possible to recognize objects and

to determine trajectories in near real

time. Knowledge of these trajectories

and identification of these objects will aid

greatly during search and recovery efforts.

•	 The significance of optical tracking

systems, rather than the radar tracking

systems currently in use, is that it should

be possible to significantly improve

the resolution with which objects are

identified, while at the same time

reducing the size and cost of the tracking

stations. By achieving near-real-time data

acquisition and interpretation, it may be

possible to take immediate responsive

actions in response to launch vehicle

system failures.

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop robust algorithms for recognizing and tracking objects with

three cameras and for establishing their absolute positions and

velocities at moderate frame rates.

•	 Develop the digital camera and lens systems needed to achieve the

needed spatial resolution, field-of-view, and position accuracy.

•	 Maximize the frame rate that can be achieved while meeting all other

system requirements.

Work Plan

•	 Review program objectives with technical monitor.

•	 Review existing video data of relevant events.

•	 Clearly define the requirements for object recognition and tracking

algorithms.

•	 Develop these algorithms.

•	 Test recognition and tracking algorithms.

•	 Write final report.

NASA Applications

•	 Tracking spacecraft launches

•	 Aiding in recovery of jettisoned components

•	 Providing accident analysis data

•	 Aiding in real-time response to launch mishaps

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Aircraft tracking and identification

•	 Surveillance
—5—

Three-Dimensional (3D) Visualization Sy

Identifi

Photon-X, Inc.

2005 Phase I

02.01-7857

Identification and Significance of Innovation

The Photon-X imaging technology is called

spatial phase and generates a crisp 3D image

mosaic using the following innovations.

•	 Single camera to generate 3D real-time

mosaics

•	 Image is angle invariant to the surface

area being measured

•	 Image is resolution and scale invariant

over extended ranges

•	 Image is invariant to lighting changes,

surface area, and textures or curvature

and can detect objects better in smoke

and fog

•	 Small in size and easily adaptable to

unique configurations

The output of the 3D Visualization System for

Tracking Objects has a resolution sufficient to

detect many 3D objects and track the objects

through space. The Photon-X technology 

the first 3D technology that has the potential

to be used in a space application, with its

strong passive techniques coupled with a

high-precision measurement in a single

camera package.

Technical Objectives

The Phase I objectives are to demonstrate how Photon-X’s opticalbased spatial phase technology can be used to generate efficient and

high-resolution 3D views of tumbling objects in space. A proof-ofconcept demonstration of the underlying technology will be performed

to demonstrate the applicability of the technology for this application. In

Phase I, we propose to demonstrate the ability to track multiple 3D objects

in a scaled version of objects in space.

Initial laboratory tests will be performed on scaled 3D tumbling models

and a final proof-of-concept test will be performed on several 3D objects

that will be tumbling through the field of view while being identified by

shape as well as being tracked. The success will be based on successf

tracking of several 3D tumbling objects through the cameras field of view.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

Photon-X has developed a patented imaging process that can provide

an efficient and accurate means to generate a high-resolution 3D image

mosaic output to be used for tracking 3D tumbling objects in real time.

The Photon-X technology uses a single camera that would passively

allow for crisp 3D image mosaics to be constructed from flyby snapshot

views generating a volumetric view of the surface area under inspection.

The system could also be used as a pretactile sensor allowing for object

recognition or robotic vision. The sensor has potential in many commercial

applications such as 3D animation, sports motion, and machine vision.
—6—

Digital Image-Based Automatic

OPTRA, Inc.

2005 Phase I

02.01-7865

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop a robust tracking algorithm to generate ALT and AZ error

signals; servo control each tracking mount to keep its optical axis

accurately aligned with the target.

•	 Develop a protocol to generate real-time trajectory data based on the

inputs from tracking stations.

•	 Design and assemble a prototype focal plane array (digital imager),

optical system (telescope), and servo-controlled ALT/AZ mount to test

and evaluate target acquisition and tracking algorithms.

•	 Determine tracking distance, errors as a function of distance,

processing speed, and data delivery time to command center.

Work Plan

•	 Develop target acquisition algorithm(s).

•	 Develop automated tracking algorithm.

•	 Design prototype tracking system (digital camera, telescope, servocontrolled tracking mount, and PC with fast frame-grabber card).

•	 Determine tracking distance, errors as a function of distance,

processing speed, and means for delivering analyzed data to

command center.

•	 Test prototype system and assess results.

•	 Write final report.

NASA Applications

Tracking spacecraft launches with high-resolution imagery

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Monitoring of military weapons and aircrafts

Identification and Significance of Innovation

The launches and landings of spacecraft are

the most demanding phases of missions.

During launch it is critical that the space vehicle be accurately tracked to ensure its successful insertion into orbit, and to monitor

several phases of the launch sequence (liftoff,

booster separation, separation from the main

fuel tank, transition to orbital flight, etc.).

To date, optical tracking at NASA’s Kennedy

Space Center has been accomplished by

manually guided tracking stations, which

may carry auxiliary video cameras. This

proposal describes an automated approach

to optical tracking where multiple optical

tracking stations can automatically track the

space vehicle following launch, while at the

same time providing high-resolution imagery

of the space vehicle. The combined data from

multiple tracking stations will allow accurate

determination of vehicle trajectory and extrapolation of real-time trajectory to stay on

target.

GRAPHIC UNAVAILABLE
—7—

High-Countng Rate Photon Det

Communicat

aPeak, Inc.

2006 Phase I

O1-06-9886

Technical Objectives

•	 Modification of the high-gain detector fabrication flow for the

integration of the infrared converter deposition process

•	 Process development, verification, and performance qualification

•	 Development, qualification, and identification of pathways for improving

the bandwidth of high-gain detector arrays

Work Plan

•	 Task 1: Kickoff/update meeting

•	 Task 2: Process modification to improve in performance in infrared

•	 Task 3: Infrared converter-high-gain detector process integration

•	 Task 4: Test-structure fabrication

•	 Task 5: Timing performance improvement

NASA Applications

Free-space communications, intersatellite links, space docking, landing,

mapping, and high-resolution altimetry, Laser Detection and Ranging

(LADAR) and Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR).

Non-NASA Applications

Low-light level two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) imaging

cameras for defense and security applications, airport security, collision

avoidance, robotic systems, and autonomous vehicles, as well as generic

applications requiring active laser illumination at eye-safe wavelengths.

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We proposed to demonstrate a novel, photoncounting detector, with integrated infrared

converter, gain >106, >50% detection efficiency from 1064 to 1550 nm, more than 500 MHz

target bandwidth, and more than 100 MHz

background counting rate capability by using

high gain silicon detector arrays in conjunction with infrared converters. This innovation

provides a simple solution to high-bandwidth

ground-space and space-space optical communications by mitigating conflicting optical

aperture-noise requirements, while providing

photon-counting sensitivity at infrared wavelengths. This novel photon counting detect

architecture promises to meet all the technical requirements of the detectors for the longrange optical telecommunications program

and has the potential to exceed the target

bandwidth.

Technology readiness level (TRL) at the end of

Phase I

•	 2 to 3

Expected TRL at the end of contract

•	 4
—8—

Space-Qualifiable 1064-nm Fiber-based Transmitter f

Fibertek, Inc.

2006 Phase I

06-9244

Technical Objectives

•	 Demonstrate arbitrary pattern optical pulse generation, with pulse

width from 0.15 to 10 nsec, and at up to 60 MHz rate.

•	 Address optical nonlinearity impairments and demonstrate

amplification of optical pulse train to ~10 W average powers.

•	 Develop an overall packaging design and system reliability model,

targeting an eventual space qualification.

Work Plan

•	 Design of an FPGA-based architecture for laser controller

•	 PCB design, development, and testing for above architecture

•	 Demonstrate optical amplification to Po~1W and assess nonlinear

optical impairments for further power scaling

•	 Assess packaging for a radiation-hardened design

•	 Develop a system reliability model with redundancy

NASA Applications

•	 High-bandwidth deep space optical communications for planetary

mission

•	 High-bandwidth intersatellite communication

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Free-space optical communication links

•	 Applying above approach to high-speed modulated imaging and

communication for underwater application

Identification and Significance of Innovation

An all-fiber polarization-maintaining transmitter operating at 1064-nm wavelength

is proposed, suited for deep space optical

communication. The compact, rugged and

efficient design is based on a master-oscillator-power-amplifier (MOPA) architecture. The

oscillator is a fiber-coupled single-frequency

laser diode, from which an arbitrary pattern

of pulse-trains as short as 150 psec can be

carved out, based on a proprietary design using state-of-the-art high-speed FPGAs for the

electronic modulation. A multistage power

amplifier using Yb-doped fibers is used for

power-scaling while mitigating all nonlinear

optical impairments. The design is compatible with M-ary pulse-position-modulation

(PPM) scheme (M = 2, 4, ...,256), with timeslot down to 150 ps, that is required for

high-bandwidth high-sensitivity deep-space

optical communications. Space qualifiable

packaging and overall system reliability model are also addressed.
—9—

Hyperspectral Foveated I

Identficat

New Span Optot-Technology Inc.

2006 Phase I

O2.01-8509

Identification and Significance of Innovation

•	 Optical identification and tracking sensors have numerous NASA and non-NASA

applications.

•	 These applications require sensors that

have wide field-of-view, high spatial resolution, high spectral discrimination ability,

and fast response.

•	 Existing sensors cannot satisfy all of the

above requirements.

•	 Proposed hyperspectral foveated imaging

sensor simultaneously possesses properties of wide field of view for global situation awareness, hyperspectral ability for

spectral signature identification, high local

spatial resolution for object details revealing, and potentially multiplying objects’

tracking ability.

•	 Using fully “solid-state” optical and electronic devices enables fast response, lightweight and low power consumption.

•	 All involved components are commercially

available or easy to fabricate resulting in a

cost-effective system.

Technical Objectives

Develop and demonstrate an innovative optical hyperspectral imaging

sensor for identification and tracking of NASA’s launch and landing objects.

The sensor is expected to possess wide field-of-view with high-resolution

measurement of spectral, spatial, and temporal signatures.

Work Plan

•	 Explore overall technical scheme; construct panoramic imaging optics.

•	 Build computed hyperspectral imaging system.

•	 Construct local image magnification channel.

•	 Develop algorithm for simplified hyperspectral image reconstruction.

•	 Construct benchtop experimental setup to demonstrate feasibility.

NASA Applications

•	 Launch object tracking and identification

•	 Robotic perception and mapping for unmanned space operations

•	 Tacking and identification of space debris or other manmade objects

•	 Detecting and tracking of on-Earth objects movement from space

vehicles or balloons

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Missile defense, weapon and sensor platform guidance

•	 Wide area surveillance

•	 Aero-vehicle rendezvous, docking, navigation, and guidance

•	 Quality control, mechanical parts inspection, and nondestructive

evaluation
—10—

Range-Based Auto-Fo

Maracel Systems & Software Technologies, LLC

2006 Phase I

O2.01-9758

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Range-Based Auto-Focus (RBAF) is a realtime capability that combines both rangebased and pixel-based focus techniques and

will represent a significant increase in the

focus performance of exisiting and newly

developed long-range optical systems.

The significance of the RBAF system development is twofold: consistently accurate realtime data products will become available to

end users, and more usable data can be reliably collected.

Technical Objectives

•	 Determine an optimal statistical measure of image quality that is ide

for moving targets.

•	 Design and validate an algorithm that combines external range with

image quality to control focus.

•	 Refine the algorithms to achieve ideal focus.

•	 Implement an architectural framework that facilitates field calibration,

various video input types, and integration with different types of focus

controllers; take advantage of existing systems’ capabilities; and focus

only on the subject of the imagery.

Work Plan

•	 Task 1: Capture and display live image

•	 Task 2: Implement computer-based focus algorithm.

•	 Task 3: Develop range-based focus algorith

•	 Task 4: Determine image qualit

•	 Task 5: Develop imagery-aided focus algorith

•	 Task 6: Use Region-of-Interest for auto-focus zone

•	 Task 7: Develop feature tracking capabilit

•	 Task 8: Develop automated calibration technique

NASA Applications

•	 Long-range optics

•	 Video documentation systems

•	 Optical tracking systems

Non-NASA Applications

•	 U.S. and foreign test ranges

•	 Tactical systems

•	 Surveillance and security
—11—

Spectral Imaging Visualization And 

Physical Optics Corporation

2007 Phase I

O2.01-9551

Identification and Significance of Innovation

NASA is seeking technologies to enable a

safer and more reliable space transportation

capability; specifically, innovative ways are

needed to visualize and track vehicles duri

launch and landing. Current optical imaging

systems usually use standard cameras,which

are light sensitive, only to visible light, with

sufficient contrast only in daytime operation

under good weather conditions. POC’s

proposed SPIVAT system offers a superior and

reliable visualization and tracking capability

for day and night operation under all weather

conditions.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL)

range at the end of contract (1–9)

•	 Phase I: 

•	 Phase II: 6

Technical Objectives

The overall goal of this project is to demonstrate for the first time the

feasibility of SPIVAT in Phase I. Specific technical objectives include

•	 Development of a preliminary design of the proposed SPIVAT system

•	 Identification of technologies for implementing the SPIVAT subsystems

•	 Integration, testing, and evaluation of the SPIVAT system for enhanced

visualization and tracking

•	 Preliminary establishment of the SPIVAT technology for commercial

applications

Work Plan

•	 Develop detailed technical requirements for proposed SPIVAT system

•	 Design SPIVAT Phase I system.

•	 Analyze COTS components to ensure the system requirements are

fulfilled.

•	 Procure and test COTS components.

•	 Develop hyperspectral/multispectral image fusion algorithms for target

visualization and tracking.

•	 Perform feasibility analysis.

•	 Explore the commercial potential and product viability.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 The success of the SPIVAT project will ensure technology is available

to NASA to visualize and track vehicles during launch and landing,

with greatly extended capability. The SPIVAT technology can be directly

applied to air traffic control, law enforcement, security, search and

rescue, fire fighting, hunting, and the automotive industry.
—12—

hyperspectral im

Light Prescriptions Innovators, LLC

2007 Phase I

O2.01-9731

Identification and Significance of Innovation

The challenges of launching and landing

space vehicles put extreme requirements

on NASA operational centers. Use of optical

tracking technique allow precise control and

in-flight inspection. However, the environment

of the two landing areas make visibility

difficult. Light Prescriptions Innovators (LPI)

proposes to improve the target imaging using

a hyperscope with high light-gathering power

and high magnification. Adaptive spectral

filtering algorithm will produce a high contrast

image.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) at

the end of Phase 1

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop design of the imager.

•	 Develop optomechanical design of imager prototype.

•	 Develop algorithms and software for spectrally adaptive filtering.

•	 Demonstrate feasibility of the proposed concept by fabricating proofof-concept prototype and evaluating its performance in laboratory

conditions.

•	 Evaluate potentially commercial applications.

NASA Applications

NASA applications will include optical space objects detection and

tracking, space biology by implementation of this technology in

microscopy, remote Earth observation for environmental, and resource

monitoring.

Non-NASA Applications

Commercial applications will include the development of cameras for

environmental monitoring (hazard gases and waste detection), cameras

for forensic analysis, and cameras for search and rescue teams. The

important application area of hyperscope technology is detection

and tracking of camouflage objects for Department of Defense (DOD)

programs. It can include compact unmanned vehicles cameras and handheld cameras for Marine Corps and army.
—13—

Very Large Solar Rejection Filter

Surface Optics Corporation

2007 Phase I

O1.08-8373

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Surface Optics Corporation will develop a

band-pass filter comprises a visible dielectric

mirror and an induced transmission filter

applied to two sides of a cast polyimide

membrane. The mirror/filter combination will

block 95% of the incident solar radiation,

while allowing a narrow pass-band for YAGlaser communication.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) at

the end of Phase I Contract (1–9)

•	 6

Technical Objectives

•	 Generate optical constants for thin metal films.

•	 Generate and evaluate coating designs.

•	 Build and test coating designs.

•	 Optimize adhesion of coatings to polymer substrate.

•	 Fabricate subscale filters on polymer substrate.

•	 Environmental testing of subscale filters.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 Long-range laser communications; interplanetary missions

•	 Solar cover for laser communication receiver on defense satellite
—14—

high-bandwidth photon-counti

near-infrar

aPeak, Inc.

2008 Phase I

O1.06-9563

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Newest designs in long-range optical communication systems require high-gain,

photon-counting arrays operated with high

detection efficiency, outstanding temporal

resolution, and capability to handle high photon detection rates.

We propose to develop a novel large area,

silicon photon-counting detector array in

near infrared, operated with moderate cooling, high-detection efficiency, high saturation counting rate, and capable of 20 ps timing resolution. Detector and readout circuit	

design will be improved to meet the detection efficiency, noise, timing resolution, and

linearity requirements of the application.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL)

range at the end of contract

•	 5

Technical Objectives

•	 Development of the tuned cavity and mirror fabrication.

•	 Development of photon counting arrays and fast electronics for

increased data rate and improved timing resolution.

Work Plan

•	 Detector structure modeling

•	 Detector process development

•	 Detector array prototyping

•	 Electronics development

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

The novel photon-counting array will find application in free space optical

communications, space-ground optical links, detection or imaging in

media with high turbidity, interferometry, mapping, robotic vision, very high

resolution three-dimensional (3D) imaging, hyperspectral imaging, and

space docking. In addition to long-range optical communications, larger

arrays could be fabricated for single-photon imaging in the infrared and

visible with applications to security cameras, imaging of noncooperative

targets, single-molecule detection, integration into microfluidic

devices, biochips for biomedical applications, fluorescence correlation

spectroscopy, etc.

Example of the innovation embodiment

of the detector array with integrated

electronics. The center package contains

the photon-counting array mounted in

flip-chip, and the perimeter contains

the electronics.
—15—

High-Efficiency, High-Power Laser 

Communic

Vega Wave Systems, Inc.

2008 Phase I

O1.06-9602

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose improvements to fiber MOPA

transmitters for deep space communications

links using several new techniques:

•	 Operating wavelength of 1560 nm

reduces the size and weight of the optical

components

•	 Resonant pumping in the 1430 to 1530

nm band improves pump absorption and

hence, wall plug efficiency

•	 Wavelength-stabilized laser (WSL) pump

sources: eliminates power-hungry thermoelectric (TE) coolers, producing a

significant improvement in wall plug

efficiency

•	 High-power seed laser with double-pass

first-stage amplifier: reduces number of

amplifier stages and improves efficiency

Technical Objectives

•	 Design, fabricate, and characterize a wavelength-stabilized pump

source for resonant pumping in the 1430 to 1530 nm Er+-doped

absorption band.

•	 Model the Er+-doped Master Oscillator Power Amplifier (MOPA)

to determine fiber lengths, pump coupling methods, and power

requirements to achieve 1 kW peak pulse power.

Work Plan

•	 Wavelength-stabilized pump lasers

– Design, fabricate, and characterize pump source for resonant

pumping in the 1430 to 1530 nm range using proprietary 

technolo

•	 Model the Er+-doped MOPA to determine fiber lengths, pump coupling

methods, and power requirements to achieve 1 kW peak pulse power.

NASA Applications

•	 High-speed, high-power pulse position modulation optical

communications links for deep space applications

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Eye safe pulsed fiber-laser-based sources for material processing and

other scientific applications

•	 High-power wavelength-stabilized pump sources at long wavelength
—16—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose to demonstrate a compact 1-kW

fiber amplifier suited for uplink applications:

•	 Use of multifiber coupled 2.5-Kw laser diode stack greatly reduces size and cost

•	 Etched taper bundle combiner creates an

all fiber architecture for reliable operation

•	 PCF Fiber amplifiers improve the efficiency of the system, and allows for a higher

level of pump integration also reducing

potential non linearities

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) at

the end of the contract

•	 4

Technical Objectives

Use the multifiber coupled 2.5-kW laser diode stack and etched taper

bundle all fiber 4+1 to 1 combiner with photonic crystal fiber (PCF) to

assemble, demonstrate, and characterize and Yb-based 1064-nm 1-kW

power amplifier.

Work Plan

•	 Construct 2.5-kW fiber coupled stack into 4500-um fibers.

•	 Construct 4+1 to 1 etched taper bundle fiber combiner.

•	 Assemble fiber amplifier with above components and PCF Fiber.

•	 Demonstrate and characterize 1-kW fiber amplifier.

NASA Applications

•	 High-power optical communications uplink transmitter and beacon

laser

•	 High power source for remote sensing

Non-NASA Applications

•	 High power source for directed energy applications

•	 Fiber laser source for material-processing applications

High-Power Uplink Amplifer for Deep S

Optical Engines, Inc.

2009 Phase I

O1.06-8122
—17—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

New photon-counting photodetectors and

arrays are proposed to advance the state of

the art in long-range space optical communications. The proposed detector operates at

1000 to 1600 nm wavelengths and have high

detection efficiency, low jitter, high bandwidth, very high internal gain, and extremely

low excess noise. The detector design will be

based on the invented breakthrough technology of discrete amplification. The new

detector will enable meeting the goals of

long-range space optical communicati

applications.

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop the internal discrete amplification design in InGaAs/I

material system to achieve stated goals.

•	 Develop initial design of the detector array that meets or exceeds the

desired performance characteristics.

•	 Develop fabrication processes for the fabrication of the internal discrete

amplifier detectors and arrays.

•	 Fabricate, test, and analyze the results of the fabricated devices 

Phase II.

•	 Deliver fully functional InGaAs/InP-based photodetectors and arrays

with internal discrete amplification to NASA at the conclusion of Phase II.

NASA Applications

•	 Long-range space to ground communication links

•	 Intersatellite links

•	 Earth orbiting to ground optical communication

•	 Quantum cryptography

•	 Three-dimensional (3D) imaging

•	 Night vision

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 Optical communication

•	 Light Detection and Ranging/Laser Detection and Ranging (LIDAR/

LADAR) remote sensing

High-Performance Negative F

Single Photon Countng D

Amplification Technologies, Inc.

2009 Phase I

O1.06-8219
—18—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose to develop large pixel-count

(e.g., 80 x 80) single photon counting detector

arrays suitable for deployment in spacecraft

terminal receivers supporting long-range

laser communications. We will leverage

initial success in monolithically integrating

“negative feedback” elements with stateof-the-art single photon avalanche diodes

to realize large-scale (NFAD) arrays in which

array pixels have high counting rate, high

detection efficiency, low dark count rate, low

after pulsing, and low timing jitter. These

devices rapidly self-quench, which reduces

afterpulsing and supports higher photon

counting rates. Since NFADs self-quench

and self-arm, they can be deployed with

greatly simplified back-end circuitry. NFAD

arrays have significant promise for enabling

space-qualifiable focal plane arrays that

serve applications requiring 1.5 μm single

photon detection.

Expected technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at start and end of contract

•	 2

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Design NFAD to reduce afterpulsing by 3X.

•	 Design NFAD to achieve timing jitter <70 ps.

•	 Establish reproducibility and uniformity of negative feedback on scale

of large arrays.

Work Plan

•	 1.A. Characterize afterpulsing of existing PLI discrete NFAD

•	 1.B. Develop afterpulsing models to describe Task 1.A. result

•	 1.C. Define optimal NFAD design for 3X reduction in afterpulsin

•	 2.A. Characterize timing jitter of existing PLI discrete NFAD

•	 2 B. Develop timing jitter models to describe Task 2.A. result

•	 2 C. Define optimal NFAD design to achieve < 70 ps timing jitte

•	 3.A. Fabricate negative feedback thin-film test structure

•	 3.B. Characterize feedback test structures for uniformity a

scalability.

•	 4. Definition of optimal NFAD pixel design and array struc

NASA Applications

•	 Free-space optical communications, including space-based laser

communications links

•	 Active remote sensing optical instruments Light Detection and

Ranging (LIDAR)

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Range-finding and Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) applications

•	 Commercial LIDAR systems

•	 Free space optical (satellite) communications

•	 Single photon counting for fluorescence, photoluminescence, and

photo emission applications

Negative feedback avalanche diode (NFAD) Arrays fr Sing

Princeton Lightwave, Inc.

2009 Phase I

O1.06-9687
—19—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

•	 Multi-gain-stage APD process proven

to exhibit high gain (M > 1000) with low	

excess noise (k = 0.02).

•	 Reliable back-illuminated mesa InGaAs/

InP APD process.

•	 Proven tolerant to proton irradiation >10

krad.

•	 Eliminating aluminum alloys will reduce

dark current by 2 orders of magnitude.

•	 Hole-initiated avalanche is anticipated to

increase temporal response by 5 to 10

times, allowing GHz count rates in singleelement devices.

•	 Technology readiness levels (TRLs)

3 and 4 at commencement. Electron

avalanche device has been built, though

the hole-initiated multistage device has

not. Similarly, radiation testing has been

performed on the electron-avalanche	

device.

Technical Objectives

•	 Fabricate single elements of varying diameter

– Allows verification of changes in gain and dark current vs. diameter

•	 Test and characterize device gain, dark current, capacitance, and

count rate

	 – Verify gain (>1200), excess noise (k <0.02), breakdown uniformity

	 (<2 V Phase I and <1 V Phase II)

•	 Fabricate segmented arrays

•	 Design segmented detector readout integrated circuit (ROIC), including

low-noise (<40 e− RMS) segmented pixel uniformity correction,	

in-pixel thresholding, etc.

•	 Phase II: Fabricate working single-photon-sensitive receiver, test

for gamma and proton radiation tolerance, lifetime test, and deliver

working receiver in hermetic housing

NASA Applications

•	 Deep space optical communications

•	 Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) receiver for atmospheric profiling

•	 Rangefinder for profiling

•	 Star trackers

•	 Three-dimensional (3D) imaging Light Detection and Ranging/Laser

Detection and Ranging (LIDAR/LADAR), when configured into arrays

•	 Astronomical imaging over UV-SWIR range (with substrate removed)

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Automotive navigation (adaptive cruise control)

•	 Telecommunications

•	 Quantum cryptography

•	 Military missile seekers and unmanned aerial vehicles/unmanned

ground vehicle (UAV/UGV) navigati

Hole-Initiated-Ava lanche, Li

Ava lanche photodetector wih re

dark co

Voxtel, Inc.

2010 Phase I

O1.04-9119
—20—

Multi-kW Uplink Fiber-Laser Beacon wit

Fibertek, Inc.

2010 Phase I

O1.04-9435

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Uplink laser beacons for deep space communications, benefit greatly from migrating

to 1010 to 1030 nm wavelengths, via use

of silicon APD receivers on the spacecraft.

Fibertek has developed an uplink laser

transmitter testbed using a multistage fiber

MOPA platform, that is scalable to a multiaperture architecture. Preliminary demonstration for 1064 nm operation has shown

multi-kW peak powers using long-pulse

slot (>100 nsec) based M-ary PPM format.

The highly flexible platform developed at

Fibertek, also corrects for pulse-distortion,

and pulse-train variations, inherent in such

multi-kW long-pulse variable-symbol PPM

data format. This SBIR proposal aims to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a

clear technical roadmap to translate this to

shorter wavelengths <1030 nm, as well as

to further optimize the uplink laser beacon

transmitter for M-ary PPM data formats, using FPGA-based adaptive control.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL)

at end of SBIR Ph II

•	 6

Technical Objectives

•	 Demonstrate CW and pulsed (M-ary pulse position modulation (PPM))

fiber Master Oscillator Power Amplifier (MOPA) for efficient operation

in the 1010 to 1030 nm wavelength region.

•	 Develop an overall system design for uplink laser beacon on the

roadmap for deep space missions.

Work Plan

•	 Build and test verification of multistage fiber MOPA producing

Pavg>30 W, optimized for 1010 to 1030 nm wavelength region.

•	 Develop an iterative/adaptive algorithm control of M-ary PPM symbol

format, with needed optical pulse control.

NASA Applications

•	 Uplink laser beacon for deep space communication and telemetry.

•	 Subscale version as uplink beacon for lunar communications and

ground-station to low-Earth-orbit/geostationary-Earth-Orbit (LEO/GEO)

satellite communication.

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Ground station to military satellite communication/telemetry

•	 Ground to space (near-Earth) power projection for small payload

propulsion

•	 Power projection for directed energy application and testing
—21—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Identification of opportunity:

•	 High-rate directional communication

•	 Deep space and intermediate-range data

links

Significance of innovation:

•	 Self-regenerated parametric amplifier

•	 High-fidelity, high-power pulse generation

•	 Brillouin-mitigated power amplification

•	 Propagation penalty mitigation

Estimated technology readiness levels

(TRLs) at beginning and end of contract

•	 1

•	 2

Technical Objectives

•	 Modulator qualification

•	 Digitizing parametric amplifier extinction assessment

•	 Digitizing parametric amplifier gain limits

•	 Pulse sharpening qualification

•	 SBS limitations on fiber amplification

•	 Power amplifier efficiency and in-band noise assessment

•	 Assessment of propagation penalty

•	 Laser transmitter system design

•	 Documentation and reporting

Work Plan

•	 Task 1: Master oscillator and modulator qualification (1 month)

•	 Task 2: Parametric amplifier model development (2 months)

•	 Task 3: Digitizing parametric amplifier optimization (3 months)

•	 Task 4: Imposed SBS limitations (1 month)

•	 Task 5: Er-doped fiber amplifier model development (1 month)

•	 Task 6: Confined-gain fiber power amplifier efficiency optimization

(3 

•	 Task 7: Receiver penalty due to beam quality (1 month)

•	 Task 8: Documentation and reporting

NASA Applications

•	 Rate-scalable optical communication

•	 Sensor and imaging links

•	 High-precision ranging

•	

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Deep-sea sensing

•	 Optical wireless

High-Efficiency Data-Rate-S

Interplanetary Op

RAM Photonics

2011 Phase I

O1.04-8043
—22—

Downlink Fiber Laser Transmi

Communic

Fibertek, Inc.

2011 Phase I

O1.04-9718

Identification and Significance of Innovation

NASA’s SCaN roadmap, calls for an integrated network approach to communication and navigation needs, from near-Earth

to planetary missions. Laser based optical

communication links for space provides an

order of magnitude higher data rates than

corresponding RF links. In addition, due to

much smaller size, weight & power burden

to spacecraft, resources are available to enhance or extend science missions. Tremendous progress made in 1.5 um & 1-um fiber

laser/amplifier technologies, their power

scaling, and availability of reliable highpower components, makes such transmitters feasible for space mission. In this SBIR

proposal, we propose to develop 1.5 um

fiber-amplifier based laser transmitters,with

Pav>4W, and compatible with a variety of

M-ary PPM formats, that have a clear path

to space-qualification roadmap. In addition,

power-scaling to 10W, athermal operation

over temperature range, and improved power efficiency, are addressed. Limited scope

qualification tests are also planned.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 4

•	 6

Technical Objectives

•	 1.5 um fiber laser transmitter, with P>4 W (Ppk>0.64 kW) compatible

with a range of M-ary pulse position modulation (PPM) formats.

Stretch goal of design validation to Pav~10 W, Ppk 1.6 kW.

•	 A thermal operation over wide temperature range, while maintaining

high overall power efficiency (>15%)

•	 Packaging design (fiber-amplifier assembly only, i.e., excluding

electronics) consistent with space-qualification roadmap

•	 Limited scope qualification testing (in Phase II)

Work Plan

•	 Design and Lab verification of 1.5 mm fiber Master Oscillator Power

Amplifier (MOPA) for all key performance parameters, with techniques

for SBS mitigation

•	 Optimize and validate design by comparing with predicted

performance from a comprehensive fiber MOPA simulation model

•	 Evaluate a thermal operation, via use of wavelength stabilized pumps,

and fiber-amplifier thermal management

•	 Packaging concept and qualification plan for a space qualification

roadmap

NASA Applications

•	 High-bandwidth lasercom flight terminal for planetary missions,

as well as for various lunar and Mars relay links, per Space

Communications and Navigation (SCaN) roadmap.

•	 Space-qualifiable, robust, compact, and efficient Light Detection

and Ranging (LIDAR) component, e.g., CO2 sensing, pumping optical

parametric oscillator/optical parametric amplifier (OPO/OPA) for a midInfrared LIDAR source.

•	 Coherent LIDAR component technology for aviation-safety sensor, e.

windshear/turbulence, wake-vortex hazard, etc.

Non-NASA Applications

•	 High bandwidth low-Earth-orbit/geostationary-Earth-Orbit (LEO/GEO)

satellite communication for the military

•	 High bandwidth real-time feed from multiple unmanned aerial vehicles

(UAVs), via LEO/GEO crosslinks

•	 High bandwidth GEO crosslinks for commercial satcom

•	 In-flight wind sensor, to aid precision dropping of supplies in war zone.
—23—

High-efficiency resonantly pumped 

trans

nLight Photonics

2012 Phase I

H9.01-8264

Identification and Significance of Innovation

There is a considerable interest in developing

fiber-based laser transmitters at the 1.5 um

wavelength for free-space optical communications. At this wavelength range, the atmosphere is largely transparent. Also, reli

commercial off-the-shelf components for

optical pulse generation and control, as well

as mature, high-performance detectors are

readily available. To meet the high wall-plug

efficiency requirement of laser transmitters

in space communication, nLight proposes

high-efficiency, high-average power 1550-

nm laser transmitter system that is based on

Er-doped fiber amplifier resonantly pumped

by high efficiency 1532-nm fiber-coupled	

diode laser pumps. The overall efficiency

is improved by (1) optimizing diode laser

and fiber coupling for maximum efficiency

of 1532-nm pumps, (2) developing resonant

pumping of the fiber amplifier for minimum

quantum defect, and (3) design and development of Er-doped fiber amplifier capable of

achieving high optical-to-optical efficiency.

EstimatedTechnology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 4

Technical Objectives

Under the proposed Phase I program, nLight will design and demonstrate

high-efficiency 1532-nm single emitter diode lasers that meet the

specified power and efficiency objective. nLight will design, fabricat

test, and deliver to NASA (or a recipient of their choosing) two 15-W (rated)

conductively cooled diode laser pump modules, coupled to a 105-um core,

0.22-NA fiber, with >32% wall-plug efficiency. The modules are based

on nLight’s Pearl platform. This effort will represent the confluence of

multiple technologies in which nLight has deep experience, making nLight

well-positioned to meet the specifications set forth in the solicitation. 

successful, nLight will propose a Phase II continuation of the program

to further improve the power and efficiency of the 1532-nm pump

module to >20 W and 40%, respectively. During the Phase I progra

nLight will perform modeling and assessment on eye-safe fiber amplifier

architectures suitable as a laser transmitter for space communication,

and develop in Phase II a high-efficiency 1550-nm-fiber laser transmitter

based on resonantly pumped Er-doped fiber amplifier system,

demonstrating >23 W average power and >23% wall-plug efficiency.

NASA Applications

A potential NASA application of the proposed fiber-based master oscillator

power amplifiers at 1550 nm is laser transmitters that meet the efficiency,

power and modulation requirement of deep space optical communication.

In addition, such system can provide precision range and velocity tracking

for spacecraft navigation, and can also be used in direct energy detection

Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) systems for atmospheric research

and meteorology.

Non-NASA Applications

Commercial applications may be in materials processing where the eyesafe wavelength and high peak power capability of the fibers developed

may provide an advantage in terms of application speed or quality. It is

expected that these high average power, high pulse energy eye-safe fiber

lasers will be useful in materials processing, biomedical, and other light

industrial applications.
—24—

A Miniature ointing and Trac

American GNC Corporation

2012 Phase I

H9.01-8425

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Inertial stabilization and relative attitude

control are the two key elements constituting the proposed accurate pointing control.

Inertial stabilization allows isolation from

interference and vibration. Relative attitude

control is used for target tracking and to

compensate pointing drift caused by gyro

drift and the Earth’s rotation. The pointing and tracking platform is an inertially

controlled/stabilized compact, light weight,

low power, broad bandwidth disturbance

rejection and/or isolation platform. The

operation of the laser designator requires

stable and accurate line-of-sight alignment

and stabilization for the beam line. The accurate pointing and attitude/orientation control

is realized by two parts: inertial stabilization/

control and relative attitude/orientation control. The former is the basis for the accurate

attitude/orientation control that isolates the

interference and vibration of the vehicle.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 4

Technical Objectives

The objective of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of a miniature,

microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) intertial measurement unit (IMU)

based, accurate alignment and stabilization system for beam pointing of a

laser designator. In Phase I of this project, first, using the simulation tools

and experimental systems of American GNC Corporation, modeling and

implementation evaluation of the proposed MEMS-based inertial pointing

system are performed. Through the modeling and simulation of the closedloop system, the implementation method and the specification of the

MEMS devices and pointing system will be further investigated. Then, an

inertial motion measurement device test and tuning are performed. MEMS

gyros for pointing stabilization are integrated into the platform structure.

Next, system integration of the MEMS stabilization platform is investigated.

An accuracy evaluation of the pointing stabilization system is performed.

Finally, the mechanical structure of the stabilization platform and the

integration of the MEMS with the system’s mechanical and electronic

components is proposed and investigated.

NASA Applications

This stabilization pointing and tracking isolation platform is of small size,

light weight, low power, fast steering, and reduces cost in design and

production. It finds wide applications in spaceborne vehicles for large

telescope stabilization control, optical communications, antenna pointing,

telescope stabilization, laser pointing and control, and vehicle guidance.

Non-NASA Applications

Its properties of small size, low cost, light weight and broad bandwidth

disturbance rejection allows its utilization in many commercial applications

including pointing control, motion, and vibration isolation. Specific

examples include target designation, stabilization control, optical pointing,

and laser and telescope pointing control.
—25—

Vibration Isolation Platfo

Communica

Controlled Dynamics, Inc.

2012 Phase I

H9.01-9372

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Optical communication links provide higher

data transfer rates with lower mass, power,

and volume than conventionalradiofrequency

links. For deep space applications at long

operational ranges, high performance stabilization of the space terminal data link is

required. To meet this need, Controlled Dynamics, Inc., proposes a novel application of

our free-floating isolation platform. Based

upon a shuttle-proven technology, this approach yields 6 degrees of freedom (DOF)

isolation from the disturbances of the host

vehicle while providing high-bandwidth active stabilization to attenuate both payload

disturbances as well as any residual disturbances transferred from the base across

the power/data umbilical. The proposed approach is designed to achieve better than 0.5

microradian-rms stabilization for all frequencies above 0.1 Hz when operating in a space

environment.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 5

Technical Objectives

Phase I develops the proposed design concept, performs architecture

trade studies, and predicts performance to establish the feasibility of the

approach. Using an available free-floating isolation platform and a twoaxis low-g testbed, the design concept is prototyped and demonstrated on

hardware in a simulated low-g environment technology readiness level of

5 (TRL–5).

Phase II proceeds with the development of a prototype system that

will be space qualified through comprehensive ground testing (TRL–6).

Technology demonstration flight tests will be proposed on sRLVs and/

or International Space Station (ISS) platforms (e.g., WORF and OPALS

upgrade), achieving a TRL–7 maturity by the end of Phase II.

NASA Applications

•	 Deep Space Planetary Missions

•	 Deep Space Optical Terminal (DOT) Project

•	 Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program

•	 Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) Mission

•	 Optical Payload for LAsercomm Science (OPALS) upgrade

Non-NASA Applications

By providing component-level isolation and stabilization at the optical

payload, this approach does not impose any unusual constraints on the

host vehicle. This makes the technology broadly applicable to a wide range

of vehicles including sRLVs,orbital RLVs, Earth-orbiting satellites (even the

simplest thruster-only designs), and deep space vehicles.
—26—

Compact, Lightweight Isolati

Applied Technology Associates

2012 Phase I

H9.01-9621

Identification and Significance of Innovation

NASA has a critical need for improved bidirectional data transmission rates from a

variety of spacecraft to Earth. NASA estimates that the current Mars to Earth transfer rate of 6 Mbps might be increased to 6

Mbps using a laser communication system.

Beam jitter caused by spacecraft-based

motion must be reduced to submicroradian

levels to enable beaconless optical beam

pointing. ATA will create a CLIP that will ho

the laser communication (LC) collimator

telescope and provide a stabilized platform

to prevent the 150-microradian spacecraft

disturbance environment from reaching

the LC terminal. To enable that stabilization, ATA will develop an ultra-low angul

noise CAPS. The proposed sensor will have

low power and high reliability, which ATA will

demonstrate by producing TRL 4 prototypes

in Phase I. ATA will develop the CLIP, a 0

microradian residual motion stable platform,

in Phase II for programs like iROC.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop the Capacitive Angular Position Sensor (CAPS).

•	 Develop design concept for Compact, Lightweight Isolation Platform

(CLIP) with CAPS.

The goal is to produce a stable platform at technology readiness level

(TRL) 4 to host laser communication payloads by reducing spacecraft jitter

to 0.5 micro-rad. Phase II will build (CLIP) engineering development unit

(EDU) to support long-range optical communications for space.

Work Plan

•	 Design and characterize prototype hardware for the CAPS using applied technology associates (ATA’s) new innovative capacitive sensing

technology. The CAPS will provide base motion measurement similar

to world-class gyros, but for smaller size, weight, and power.

•	 Gather requirements, develop system architecture, and performance

models for the CLIP.

•	 Specify design concept and develop plan for building a CLIP EDU for a

Phase II proof-of-concept demonstration.

NASA Applications

ATA-developed CLIP concept is the basis for NASA’s laser communication

terminal for the LLCD and LCRD programs. ATA’s proposed CLIP and CAPS

may support NASA integrated Radio and Optical Communications (iROC)

project’s laser collimator.

Non-NASA Applications

Air Force’s Space Laser Communication Terminal (SLCT), DARPA’s Laser

Weapon System Module (LWSM), Lockheed Martin’s Space Optical

Tracking (SpOT), Navy’s Laser Weapon System (LaWS), and Marine’s

Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD).
—27—

Large Optical Telescope Based on Hi

Planar Diff

BEAM Engineering for Advanced

Measurements

2014 Phase I

H9.02-8530

Identification and Significance of Innovation

•	 Apply diffractive optics to the design

of the optical telescope, a part of the

Ground-Based Telescope Assembly.

•	 Use of diffractive optics will allow drastic optical telescope cost and weight

reductions.

•	 Cost reduction is due to the elimination

of tightly toleranced reflective optics

used in conventional telescopes.

•	 Weight reduction is due to replacement

of tightly toleranced, massive reflective

optics with loosely toleranced, thin diffractive optics.

•	 Additional indirect cost reduction of

pointing system due to reduced weight

of telescope structure.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 5

•	 7

Technical Objectives

•	 Subscale diffractive optical elements will be designed, fabricated, and

tested in Phase I.

•	 Intermediate objective is to develop methods for precise and accurate

writing of grating pattern on large aperture diffractive optical

elements.

•	 Testing will address critical performance parameters related to toplevel telescope requirements.

•	 Optical resolution testing on subscale diffractive elements will validate

design concept for achieving <20 micro-rad spot size with full-scale

elements.

•	 Testing of the amplitudes of scattering and parasitic diffraction will

validate design concept for achieving operation as close as 5 degrees

from the Sun.

NASA Applications

•	 Major application is to the Ground-Based Telescope Assembly for

deep-space optical communications

•	 Also applicable to other future NASA laser communications programs

•	 Possible application to the flight laser transceiver of deep space

optical communications systems

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Fabrication methods to be developed on this program are applicable to

commercial laser communications transmitters and receivers

•	 Possible Department of Defense (DoD) applications include laser range

finders, laser target markers, and laser designators
—28—

High Cout Rate Single-Photon C

Voxtel, Inc.

2014 Phase I

H9.01-8912

Identification and Significance of Innovation

An optical communications receiver requires

efficient and high-rate photon-counting

capability so that the information from

every photon, received at the aperture, is

processed. This is particularly true in space

platforms, where the information contained

in every additional photon detected directly

translates into lower system size, weight

and power (SWAP). To address this need, a

near-infrared (NIR) high-gain, low-excess

noise APD array will be developed for photon

counting flight receivers.

The proposed APD array technology is

capable of a single photon detection

efficiency (SPDE) greater than 50% at 100

Mhz count rate. It will be shown possible to

discriminate photo-generated events from

dark-initiated events, so that when the APD

is configured with a low noise readout circuit, with sufficient bandwidth detection circuits, that low false alarm rates (FARs) can

be achieved.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Using numerical models, optimize avalanche photodiode (APD)

epitaxial layers.

•	 Grow the APD epitaxial material.

•	 Fabricate APD detector arrays and test their performance.

•	 Prepare a GHz-rate readout integrated circuit (ROIC) for testing and

characterize the SCM APD.

Work Plan

•	 Using Monte Carlo analysis, the APD design will be optimized.

Simulations will show a high probability of photon detection at 10s

Mhz count rates.

•	 Candidate device designs will be epitaxially grown, and a series of

single-element and small size arrays will be fabricated and tested. A

multi-GHz ROIC, with sampling circuits, will be prepared to test and

evaluate the APD.

Tasks

•	 Perform system engineering.

•	 Optimize high-gain APD epitaxial structures.

•	 Optimize APD architecture, fabrication, and processing.

•	 Prepare VX–805b ROIC for testing and demonstrating APD.

NASA Applications

NASA applications for the innovation include optical communications,

Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) based autonomous navigation and

landing systems, three-dimensional (3D) imaging for docking systems, and

laser ranging.

Non-NASA Applications

Military applications include laser range finding, LADAR imaging and

autonomous navigation. Commercial applications include automobile driver

assistance systems and collision avoidance systems.

A high gain APD is proposed, which has

extremely low excess noise during the

decision event of the optical receiver.

Using time-over-threshold photo-events

are discriminated from dark events
—29—

High-Effciency and Power Lase

Communica

Freedom Photonics LLC

2014 Phase I

O9.02-8941

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose an innovative resonantly pumped

Er-based 1550-nm laser transmitter suitable

for PPM for deep space communications.

Resonantly pumped Er lasers provide for high

optical conversion efficiency, which coupled

with high-efficiency pumping using highly

efficient diode pump lasers at 1480 nm can

lead to unprecedented wallplug efficiencies

for these lasers.

We will use a novel diode laser pumped,	

actively Q-switched solid-state laser architecture. Our unique approach, of optimizing

the diode pump laser design to the Er cavity

design,will allow us to extract maximum efficiency from the system (greater >25%). This

is a unique laser, not available on the market.

Using our miniature communications module

background and commercial products, we

intend to integrate this solution in a minimum footprint possible, minimizing the size,

weight and power (SWaP) and launch costs.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 6

Technical Objectives

The overall technical objective for this Phase I effort is to perform critical

design studies, simulations, and key experimental evaluation to prove

the feasibility of the approach for generating a radiation hard Phase II

prototype pulse-position-modulation (PPM) transmitter design with robust

packaging, which meets the following performance targets:

•	 Wavelength: 1550 nm

•	 Spectral bandwidth: Transform-limited

•	 Optical-to-optical efficiency: >70%

•	 Pulse width: 0.2 to 16ns

•	 Average output power: 20 W

•	 Total wallplug efficiency: >25%

•	 Total mass: <5 kg

Work Plan

•	 Task 1: Epitaxial design and growth of 1480-nm pump laser material

•	 Task 2: High-efficiency 1480-nm pump laser fabrication and testing

•	 Task 3: Er-doped glass Q-switched laser design and benchtop

demonstration

•	 Task 4: Phase II PPM transmitter design and layout

The deliverables of the Phase I program will be progress reports and a

critical hardware demonstration

NASA Applications

The first planned product for the PPM optical transmitter technology to be

developed in this program is a long-range Free Space Optics (FSO) link for

Interplanetary Optical Telecommunications supporting robotic explorers.

The second planned products will be FSO links for NASA satellite-toground applications as well as intersatellite communications. Subsequent

products will be for air-to-ground, air-to-air, and ground-to ground

communications.

Non-NASA Applications

Commercial lasercomm links—both intersatellite, and terrestrial. Airto-air and air-to-ground applications in the Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

applications.
—30—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

A pulse shaping and spectral shaping 20

W high-efficiency (>25%) short pulse fiber

laser is introduced for the first time to meet

the needs of deep space communications.

The innovations are

•	 Pulse shaping technique to obtain >45

dB extinction ratio shaped pulses with

<35 ps rise/fall time

•	 Spectral shaping technique to obtain

transform limited spectrum and high

optical signal to ratio (OSNR).

•	 Pulse shaping technique to mitigate nonlinear effects such as stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS).

•	 State-of-the-art fiber amplifier, electronics, and thermal management technique

to achieve compact 20-W fiber laser

original equipment manufacturer (OEM)

module with >25% wallplug efficiency.

PolarOnyx has been leading both the R&D

and commercial production in the world. We

have recently commercialized the highest

energy (0.5 mJ) fs fiber laser product and

won 2014 Prism Award Finalist (category of

industrial lasers). We are confident that the

proposed short pulse fiber laser will be accomplished in both scientific breakthrough

and commercialization.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 6

Technical Objectives

•	 Study and apply the pulse shaping technique to achieve short pulse

operation with the required wave format (<35 ps rise/fall time).

In cooperating with our pulse shaping technology and successful

experience in developing high efficiency and high power short pulse

fiber lasers, a proof-of-concept demonstration for a 10-W fiber laser

will be given.

•	 Investigate pulse interaction with nonlinear media and pulse/spectral

shaping effects of the proposed short pulse fiber laser. Design and

select FBG and EYDF to achieve higher power conversion efficiency,

mitigate nonlinear effects, and correct pulse distortion and modulation

chirp.

•	 Investigate high-speed electronics for processing and synchronization,

protocol interfaces, and radiofrequency signal generation for the

modulator. Design radiation hardness electronics for both high-speed

electronics and high-power diode drivers.

NASA Applications

In addition to NASA’s deep space communications, the proposed

short pulse high-power fiber laser approach can also be used in other

applications, such as space, aircraft, and satellite applications of Laser

Detection and Ranging (LADAR) systems and communications. PolarOnyx

will develop a series of products to meet various requirements for NASA/

military deployments.

Non-NASA Applications

High-power fiber lasers represent the next generation of critical optical

components needed to build the coherent optical communications of the

future and cable TVs that will deliver increased communication bandwidth

and improved Quality of Service (QoS) end users. The market for the

application is growing and will be of great potential of hundreds of millions

market.

20-W High-Efficiency 1550-nm P

PolarOnyx, Inc.

2014 Phase I

H9.02-9962
—31—

OTICAL COM

SBIR Phse I

2005 to 2012 

Optical Module for Space
—32—

Advanced AutomatedDebris T

OPTRA, Inc.

2005 Phase II

O2.01-7854

Identification and Significance of Innovation

This program concerns the development of a

digital imaging and tracking capability with

two primary goals: (1) to provide the means

for tracking and predicting the trajectories of

multiple objects following the breakup of a

launched space vehicle and (2) to provide a

means for identifying such objects by shape

and 3D size parameters.

Providing a detailed report that details shape,

size, and ground impact positions for each

piece of a debris cloud minutes after the

failure occurs significantly increases NASA’s

current capabilities during search and

recovery efforts following a launch failure.

The innovation lies both in the use of a stateof-the-art optical system to carry out a task

previously performed by radar and in the

tracking and identification algorithms being

developed.

Technical Objectives

The goal of the Phase II effort is to continue the development of the

detection, tracking, and identification algorithms, design and build a

prototype system utilizing commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) components,

and test the system with representative scenarios.

•	 Review/refine/improve each step in the current algorithmic process for

detection, tracking, and identification.

•	 Develop and build a complete system architecture using COTS

component.

•	 Fuse data from two or sensor to produce three-dimensional (3D) object

trajectories and ground impact points in GPS coordinates.

•	 Field test the system at OPTRA and at NASA.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

This program has a clear and immediate NASA application: to establish

3D trajectory and shape/size information for search and recovery efforts

following a launch failure.

The system is applicable to Department of Defense (DoD) in weapons

testing applications and to the DoD and commercial aircraft manufacturers

for monitoring test flights of manned and unmanned aircraft.
—33—

Very Large Solar Rejection Filter

Surface Optics Corporation

2007 Phase II

O1.08-8373

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Surface Optics Corporation will develop

a band-pass filter comprising a visible

dielectric mirror and an induced transmission

filter, applied to two sides of a cast polyimide

membrane. The mirror/filter combination will

block 95% of the incident solar radiation,

while allowing a narrow pass-band for laser

communication.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) 

the end of Phase I contract

•	 6

Technical Objectives

•	 Fabricate 2-m filter with good coating adhesion at all positions on

coated surface.

•	 Develop n,k data for selected materials out to 1.1-meter radius.

•	 Gain fundamental understanding of the effect of ionized gas on

coating adhesion to the polymer membrane.

•	 Build and test coating designs on subscale membranes.

•	 Apply multilayer design to 2-meter substrates.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 Long-range laser communications; interplanetary missions

•	 Solar cover for laser communication receiver on defense satellite
—34—

High-bandwidth photon-count

near-infrar

aPeak, Inc.

2008 Phase II

O1.06-9563

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Newest designs in long-range optical

communication systems require high-gain,

photon-counting arrays operated with high

detection efficiency, outstanding temporal

resolution, and capability to handle high

photon detection rates. We propose to devel

a novel large area, silicon photon-counting

detector array in near infrared, operated with

moderate cooling, high detection efficiency,

high saturation counting rate, and capable

of 500 ps timing resolution. Detector and

readout circuit design will be improved to

meet the detection efficiency, noise, timing

resolution, and linearity requirements of the

application.

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) at

the end of the contract

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Development of the integrated electronics to perform counting,

afterpulsing control and high-resolution functions and data out control

•	 Development of the hardware and tuning procedures of the cavity

resonance at the target wavelength (1050, 1060, or 1064 nm as per

input from JPL)

•	 Seamless process integration of DBR, flip-chip steps into the process

flow

•	 RC–GPD array design, fabrication, and qualification

Work Plan

•	 Task 1: Readout integrated circuit (ROIC) array design and simulation

•	 Task 2: RC–GPD array design and simulation

•	 Task 3: Array fabrication plan

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

The novel photon counting array will find application in free space optical

communications, space-ground optical links, detection or imaging in

media with high turbidity, interferometry, mapping, robotic vision, very

high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) imaging, hyperspectral imaging,

and space docking. In addition to long-range optical communications,

larger arrays could be fabricated for single-photon imaging in the

infrared and visible with applications to security cameras, imaging

of noncooperative targets, single-molecule detection, integration into

microfluidic devices, biochips for biomedical applications, fluorescence

correlation spectroscopy, etc.
—35—

High-Efficiency, High-Power Laser 

Communic

Vega Wave Systems, Inc.

2008 Phase II

O1.06-9602

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose improvements to fiber MOPA

transmitters for deep space communications

links using several new techniques:

•	 Operating wavelength of 1560 nm reduces the size and weight of the optical

components

•	 Resonant pumping in the 1430-to 1530-

nm band improves pump absorption and,

hence, wall plug efficiency

•	 Wavelength-stabilized laser (WSL) pump

sources: eliminates power-hungry thermoelectric (TE) coolers, producing a significant improvement in wall plug efficiency

•	 Photonic Crystal Fiber amplifiers improve

the efficiency of the system

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) 

the end of the contract

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Design, fabricate, and characterize a wavelength-stabilized pump

source for resonant pumping in the 1430 to 1530 nm Er+-doped

absorption band

•	 Design and fabricate an Er+-doped Master Oscillator Power Amplifier

(MOPA) to achieve 1 kW peak pulse power

Work Plan

•	 Wavelength-stabilized pump lasers

•	 Design, fabricate, and characterize pump source for resonant pumping

in the 1430 to 1530 nm range using proprietary technology

•	 Fabricate the Er+-doped MOPA to achieve 1 kW peak pulse power at

1560 nm.

NASA Applications

High-speed, high-power pulse position modulation optical communications

links for deep space applications

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Eye safe pulsed fiber-laser-based sources for material processing and

other scientific applications

•	 High power wavelength-stabilized pump sources at long wavelengths
—36—

High-Power Uplink Amplifier for Deep 

Optical Engines, Inc.

2009 Phase II

O1.06-8122

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose improvements to fiber

Master Oscillator Power Amplifier (MOPA)

uplink power amplifiers for deep space

communications links using several new

techniques:

•	 2.5-k W multi-fiber coupled laser dio

stack technology adapted to pumping

fiber lasers and amplifiers

•	 Efficient Etched Air Taper Combiners

allow for integration of high pump

powers into fiber based amplifiers and

Lasers

•	 PCF amplifiers provide high peak power

operation while also providing for high

average power operation

•	 A hybrid amplification system that uses

both coiled and rod-type PCFs

Expected technology readiness level (TRL) 

the end of the contract

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Design, fabricate, and characterize a coiled and rod-type photonic

crystal fiber (PCF) amplifier and compare its performance to

requirements.

•	 From the results obtained from both amplifiers, design, fabricate,

characterize, and deliver an uplink transmitter channel that meets or

exceeds the current requirements for integration into existing NASA

uplink testbed infrastructure.

Work Plan

•	 Design high peak power fiber amplifiers

•	 Design, fabricate, and characterize both a coiled and rod-type PCFbased amplifier and compare under worst case operational scenarios

•	 Fabricate and deliver an uplink transmitter meeting the current

proposed requirements

NASA Applications

High-speed, high-power pulse position modulation optical communications

links for deep space applications Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) and

remote sensing applications.

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Pulsed fiber-laser-based sources for material processing and other

scientific applications

•	 Directed energy applications
—37—

high-Performance Negative-F

Single-Photon Countng D

Amplification Technologies, Inc.

2009 Phase II

O1.06-8219

Identification and Significance of Innovation

New photon-counting photodetectors and

arrays are proposed to advance the state

of the art in long-range space optical

communications. The proposed detector

operates at 1000 nm to 1600 nm wavelengths

and have high detection efficiency, low

jitter, high bandwidth, very high internal

gain, and extremely low excess noise. The

detector design will be based on the invented

breakthrough technology of discrete

amplification. The new detector enables

meeting the goals of long-range space

optical communication applications.

Technical Objectives

•	 Develop the internal discrete amplification design in InGaAs/InP

material system to achieve stated goals.

•	 Develop the design of the detector array that meets or exceeds the

desired performance characteristics.

•	 Develop fabrication processes for the fabrication of the internal

discrete amplifier detectors and array

•	 Fabricate, test, and analyze the results of the fabricated devices.

•	 Deliver fully functional InGaAs/InP-based photodetectors and arrays

with internal discrete amplification to NASA at the onclusion of Phase II.

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 Long-range space-to-ground communication links

•	 Intersatellite links

•	 Earth orbiting to ground optical communication

•	 Quantum cryptography

•	 Three-dimensional (3D) imaging

•	 Night vision

NASA and Non-NASA Applications

•	 Optical communication

•	 Light Detection and Ranging/Laser Detection and Ranging (LIDAR/

LADAR) remote sensing
—38—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

We propose to develop large-format	

128 x 128 single-photon counting detector

arrays suitable for deployment in spacecraft

terminal receivers supporting long-range

laser communications. We will levera

initial success in monolithically integrating

“negative feedback” elements with stateof-the-art single-photon avalanche diodes

to realize large-scale NFAD arrays in which

array pixels have good detection efficiency,

low dark count rate, low afterpulsing, low

timing jitter, and high counting rate. Sin

NFADs self-quench and self-arm, they can be

implemented with greatly simplified backend

circuitry and enable single-photon sensitive

focal plane arrays with vastly reduced singlephoton sensitive focal plane arrayswith vastly

reduced complexity relative to the stateof-the-art. NFAD arrays have significa

promise for enabling space-qualifiable focal

plane arrays that serve applications requiring

1.5 μm single photon detection.

Expected technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at start and end of contract

•	 2

•	 4

Technical Objectives

•	 Optimize pixel-level NFAD design.

•	 Implement optimized pixel-level NFADs into large-format arrays.

•	 Develop characterization capability for testing large-format NFAD

arrays (i.e., 128 x 128 x 100 μm pitch).

Work Plan

•	 NFAD wafer epitaxial design and fabrication

•	 NFAD 32 x 32 array-level design and photomask fabrication

•	 NFAD 32 x 32 array wafer processing and wafer-level testing

•	 Design of fan-out board test platform

•	 Test electronics development, including FPGA and test code

•	 NFAD 32 x 32 array prototype characterization

•	 Second iteration of A.1 to A.6 for 128 x 128 NFAD format

•	 Summarize results and define inputs for full FPA development

NASA Applications

•	 Free-space optical communications, including space-based laser

communications links

•	 Active remote sensing optical instruments Light Detection and

Ranging (LIDAR)

Non-NASA Applications

•	 Range-finding and LADAR applications

•	 Commercial Laser Detection and Ranging (LADAR) systems

•	 Free space optical (satellite) communications

•	 Single photon counting for fluorescence, photoluminescence, and

photoemission applications

negative feedback avalanche diode (NFAD) Arrays or Sin

Princeton Lightwave, Inc.

2009 Phase II

O1.06-9687
—39—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Laser beacons with scalable powers are

needed for ground to deep space optical

communication uplinks. They serve as

absolute reference for tracking of spacecraft

during the downlink laser communication. For

such space communication link distances the

beam spread due to diffraction is significant

enough that only few photons are collected

by a moderate size optical telescopes on

the spacecraft. This necessitates photoncounting detectors suited for the space

environment,alongwith increasing the output

power of the laser beacon. Ultralow noise

silicon avalanche photodetector (Si-APD)

based position-sensing detectors are used

on the spacecraft to detect the laser beacons.

Such Si-APDs are also radiation-hardened

and compatible with space-environment

operation. It is therefore desirable to operate

at shorter wavelengths ~1000 nm, where SiAPDs have improved spectral responsivity.

This helps to improve the SNR for tracking,

and consequently reduce the uplink laser

power requirements.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 3

•	 5

Technical Objectives

•	 High-efficiency Yb-fiber amplifiers of Pavg~500 W, with high spectral

responsivity Si-APD photon-counting detectors

•	 Fiber master-oscillator power-amplifier (fiber MOPA) design, with

tailored spectral and temporal characteristics of near-diffraction limited

beam-quality (M2<1.5)

•	 Wide range repetition-rates and pulse-pattern/formats capability, like

the two-level nested pulse position modulation (PPM) desired for an

uplink laser beacon.

•	 Design is aided by comprehensive fiber MOPA simulation tool, robust

“all-fiberoptic” design, with no laser alignment requirements

•	 Operate with electro-optic power efficiency (estimated >25%). Modular

architecture scalable to a temporally synchronized, multi-aperture

configuration

Work Plan

•	 Reconfigure power amplifier from a free-space signal coupled to

an all-fiber form, leading to an all-fiber implementation of the laser

channel

•	 Average and peak power at 1030-nm to 500 W under 500 kHz PPM16 ary operation

•	 Improve multistage seed amplifier chain

•	 Design, build, test, and deliver prototype hardware

NASA Applications

•	 Compact high-efficiency 1030-nm laser transmitter for deep-space

communication

•	 Low power uplink laser beacons for near-Earth optical communication

links, or, smaller aperture optical telescopes (~30-cm) to enable highbandwidth optical links

Non-NASA Applications

Laser illuminator for directed-energy (DE) applications. MDA applications

for target identification and designation.

Multi- kW Uplink Fiber-Laser Beacon with

Fibertek, Inc.

2010 Phase II

O1.04-9435
—40—

Downlink Fiber Laser Transmi

Communic

Fibertek, Inc.

2011 Phase II

O1.04-9718

Identification and Significance of Innovation

NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) roadmap, calls for an integrated network approach to communication and navigation needs, from near-Earth

to planetary missions. Laser-based optical

communication links for space provides an

order of magnitude higher data rates than

corresponding radiofrequency links. In addition, due to much smaller size, weight and

power burden to spacecraft, resources are

available to enhance or extend science missions. Tremendous progress made in 1.5 um

and 1-um fiber laser/amplifier technologies,

their power scaling, and availability of reliable high-power components, makes such

transmitters feasible for space mission. In

this Small Business Innovation Research

(SBIR) proposal, we propose to develop 1.5-

um fiber-amplifier-based laser transmitters,

with Pav>4 W, and compatible with a variety

of M-ary PPM formats that have a clear path

to a space-qualification roadmap. In addition, power-scaling to 10 W, a thermal operation over temperature range and improved

power efficiency are addressed. Limited

scope qualification tests are also planned.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 4

•	 6

Technical Objectives

Proposed program objective: design, build, and test a technology readiness

level (TRL) 6 quality laser and conduct NASA GEVs vibration and thermal

vacuum testing to validate the design. Phase 1 experimental results

demonstrates that the laser complies with Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)

specified M-ary pulse-position-modulation (PPM) variable formatting

with peak powers >640 W over 10C-50C. Due to planetary lasercom

demonstration mission being the target application, the design is based on the

use of mature and high-reliability 1.5-um fiber-optic component technology

and a fiber-amplifier architecture consistent with a space qualification

roadmap.

Work Plan:

•	 Complete Optical Design Trade Studies: Finalize the optical design and

improve efficiency.

•	 Design Flight Quality Transmitter Package: A comprehensive optical,

thermal, mechanical, electrical design.

•	 Mission Assurance: Continue reliability assessments and optical parts

Improvements from phase I TVAC test parts.

•	 Fabricate a flight-like prototype. A full-scale laser transmitter will be built

and performance tested.

•	 TRL 6 Testing: The laser will be vibration and thermal vacuum tested to

NASA GEVs levels.

NASA Applications

High bandwidth lasercom flight terminal for planetary missions, as well as for

lunar and Mars relay links.

•	 Space-qualifiable, robust, compact, and efficient Light Detection

and Ranging (LIDAR) component, e.g., CO2 sensing, pumping optical

parametric oscillator/optical parametric amplifier (OPO/OPA) for a midinfrared LIDAR source.

•	 Coherent LIDAR component technology for aviation-safety sensor, e.g

wind-shear/turbulence, wake-vortex hazard, etc.

Non-NASA Applications

•	 High-bandwidth low-Earth-orbit/geostationary-Earth-Orbit (LEO/GEO)

satellite communication for military

•	 High-bandwidth real-time feed from multiple unmanned aerial vehicles

(UAVs), via LEO/GEO crosslinks

•	 High-bandwidth GEO crosslinks for commercial satcom.
—41—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

Optical communication links provide higher

data transfer rates with lower mass, power,

and volume than conventional radiofrequency

links. For deep space applications at long

operational ranges, high-performance

stabilization of the space terminal data link

is required. To meet this need, Controlled

Dynamics Inc., has developed a novel

application of our free-floating isolation

platform. Based upon a shuttle-proven

technology, this approach yields 6 DOF

isolation from the disturbances of the host

vehicle while providing high-bandwidth

active stabilization to attenuate both

payload disturbances as well as any residual

disturbances transferred from the base across

the power/data umbilical. The proposed

approach is designed to achieve better than

0.5 microradian-rms stabilization for all

frequencies above 0.1 Hz when operating in

a space environment.

Estimated technology readiness levels (TRLs)

at beginning and end of contract

•	 4

•	 6

Technical Objectives

Compact, Lightweight Isolation Platform (CLIP) concept was developed

to measure and establish the feasibility to meet space terminal isolation

requirements. Sensor and actuator component testing have further

demonstrated design at technology readiness level (TRL) 4.

Phase II goals are to ground test an end-to-end prototype on a soft

suspension testbed to demonstrate performance in a simulated

low-g operational environment. Both search and beacon track will be

demonstrated. Environment testing iterations will be performed to produce

space qualified two-axis strut assemblies for delivery to NASA. Three-strut

assemblies rigidly mounted to any space terminal will provide 6 degrees of

freedom (DOF) isolation and high-bandwidth stabilization. These struts are

designed for robustness and can be used as add-on to any rigid structure,

thus enabling a broad range of space applications requiring high-precision

stabilization, isolation, and pointing.

NASA Applications

•	 Deep Space Planetary Missions (e.g., Mars 2020)

•	 Deep Space Optical Terminal (DOT) Project

•	 Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program

•	 Integrated Radio and Optical Communications (iROC) Project

•	 Alternative for Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD)

Mission

•	 Upgrade for Optical Payload for LAsercomm Science (OPALS)

Non-NASA Applications

The two-axis isolation struts technology broadly is applicable to a wide

range of vehicles including orbital RLVs, Earth-orbiting satellites, and deep

space vehicles.

Isolation Platform for Long-Rang

Controlled Dynamics, Inc.

2012 Phase II

H9.01-9372
—42—

Identification and Significance of Innovation

NASA has a critical need for improved	

bidirectional data transmission rates from

a variety of spacecraft to Earth. NA

estimates that the current Mars-to-Earth

transfer rate of 6 Mbps might be increased

to 600 M bps using a laser communication

(LC) system. Beam jitter caused by

spacecraft-based motion must be reduced to

submicroradian levels to enable beaconless

optical beam pointing. ATA will create

CLIP that will provide a stabilized platform

to prevent the 150-microradian spacecraft

disturbance environment from reaching the

LC terminal. To enable that stabilizatio

ATA will develop an ultra low angular noise

CAPS. CAPS will have low-power and high

reliability, which ATA will demonstrate by

producing prototypes in Phase I and a CLIP

EDU in Phase II. ATA will develop the CLI

a 0.5 microradian residual motion stable

platform, for programs like iROC.

Estimated technology readiness levels

(TRLs)at beginning and end of contract

•	 4

•	 5

Technical Objectives

•	 Fine-tune Capacitive Angular Position Sensor (CAPS) sensor

electronics and measure sensor noise

•	 Incorporate lessons learned from the CAPS prototype build/test into an

updated CAPS design for use on the Compact, Lightweight Isolation

Platform (CLIP)

•	 Design, build, and test the improved CAPS sensors

•	 Design an engineering development unit (EDU) CLIP platform that will

interface to a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) control/ drive system

•	 Build the CLIP EDU

•	 Test the CLIP EDU in a quiescent environment and a representative

vibration environment

The goal is to produce a stable platform that can host laser communication

payloads by reducing 150 micro-rad spacecraft jitter down to 0.5 microrad. Phase I, will produce a low frequency CAPS design at technology

readiness level (TRL) 4. Ph II plans to build a CLIP and EDU to suppo

long-range optical communications in space.

Work Plan

CAPS prototype characterization; build a third sensor using alternate

potting material; build a final version for CLIP assembly. Perform assemb

integration and test. Complete detailed CLIP design and build and test a

completed CLIP platform.

NASA Applications

Applied Technology Associates (ATA) developed CLIP concept is the

basis for NASA’s laser communication terminal for the LLCD and LCRD

programs. ATA’s proposed CLIP and CAPS may support NASA integrated

Radio and Optical Communications (iROC) project’s laser collimator.

Non-NASA Applications

Air Force’s Space Laser Communication Terminal (SLCT), DARPA’s Laser

Weapon System Module (LWSM), Lockheed Martin’s Space Optical

Tracking (SpOT), Navy’s Laser Weapon System (LaWS), and Marine’s

Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD).

Compact, Lightweight Isolati

Applied Technology Associates

2012 Phase II

H9.01-9621
—43—
—44—
—45—

American GNC Corporation, Simi Valley, CA ....................................................................24

Amplification Technologies, Inc., New York ...............................................................17, 37

aPeak, Inc., Newton, MA ..................................................................................... 7, 14, 34

Applied Technology Associates, Albuquerque, NM.....................................................26, 42

BEAM Engineering for Advanced Measurements, Winter Park, FL.....................................27

Controlled Dynamics, Inc., Huntington Beach, CA......................................................25, 41

Fibertek, Inc., Herndon, VA....................................................................... 8, 20, 22, 39, 40

Freedom Photonics LLC, Santa Barbara, CA....................................................................29

Light Prescriptions Innovators, LLC, Altadena, CA............................................................12

Maracel Systems & Software Technologies, LLC, Crestview, FL........................................10

New Span Optot-Technology Inc., Miami, FL.....................................................................9

nLight Photonics, Vancouver, WA....................................................................................23

Optical Engines, Inc., Crystal Lake, IL .......................................................................16, 36

OPTRA, Inc., Topsfield, MA .................................................................................... 4, 6, 32

Photon-X, Inc., Huntsville, AL. ..........................................................................................5

Physical Optics Corporation, Torrance, CA.......................................................................11

PolarOnyx, Inc., San Jose, CA ........................................................................................30

Princeton Lightwave, Inc., Cranbury, NJ....................................................................18, 38

RAM Photonics, San Diego, CA ......................................................................................21

Surface Optics Corporation, San Diego, CA...............................................................13, 33

Vega Wave Systems, Inc., West Chicago, IL ..............................................................15, 35

Voxtel, Inc., Beaverton, OR.......................................................................................19, 28

Company Na
—46—

James D. Stegeman

Technology Manager

Space Communications and Navigation Program

NASA Glenn Research Center

M.S. 142–2

Cleveland, Ohio 44135

Telephone: 216–433–3389

E-mail: James.D.Stegeman@nasa.gov

Afroz J. Zaman

NASA Glenn Research Center

M.S. 54–1

Cleveland, Ohio 44135

Telephone: 216–433–3415

E-mail: Afroz.J.Zaman@nasa.gov

PS–01398–0914

SB

Points of Con

—46—
Cover photo: SCaN testbed under GRC 

thermal vacuum testing.

Cover photo: Laser Communication Relay

Demonstration (LCRD).