Patent Publication Number: US-2022215657-A1

Title: Hybrid Drone Enabled Communications System for Underwater Platforms

Description:
RELATED PROVISIONAL APPLICATION 
     This application is related to and claims the benefit of priority of provisional U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/133,655, entitled “HYBRID DRONE ENABLED COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM FOR UNDERWATER PLATFORMS”, filed on Jan. 4, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
     1. Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a communications system and, in particular, to a method, apparatus, and system for communicating with an underwater platform. 
     2. Background 
     Communications on a global level between ground stations, aircraft, ships, land vehicles, and other platforms can occur using satellites. Satellites can relay and amplify radio frequency signals. Satellites can create communication channels between transmitters and receivers at different locations on the Earth. Satellites relay information over these communication channels using radio frequency signals using frequencies from 30 MHz to 10 GHz. 
     Satellite communications are generally unavailable to submerged underwater vehicles. Water blocks the radio frequency signals used by satellites. Currently, existing systems for communications involve having an underwater vehicle surface and raise an antenna or deploy a floating wire antenna while submerged. Having the underwater vehicle surface reduces efficiency in the speed of travel and increases the vulnerability of the underwater vehicle. A floating wire antenna is bulky and inefficient. 
     Therefore, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus that take into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as well as other possible issues. For example, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus that overcome a technical problem with communicating with a submerged underwater platform. 
     SUMMARY 
     An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communications system for an underwater platform. The communications system comprises an unmanned aerial vehicle, a radio frequency communications system, a laser communications system, and a controller. The unmanned aerial vehicle comprises a first section and a second section. The first section is moveably connected to the second section. The radio frequency communications system is connected to the first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The radio frequency communications system includes a first parabolic antenna. The laser communications system is connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The laser communications system includes a second parabolic antenna. The controller is configured to control the laser communications system to transmit incoming information in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water. The incoming information is from a receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. 
     Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communications system for an underwater platform. The communications system comprises an unmanned aerial vehicle, a radio frequency communications system, a laser communications system, and a controller. The unmanned aerial vehicle comprises a first section having a dish shape and a second section having the dish shape. The first section is moveably connected to the second section. The unmanned aerial vehicle is configured for an underwater movement and an aerial flight. The radio frequency communications system is connected to the first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The radio frequency communications system comprises a first parabolic antenna with a first parabolic antenna integrated as part of the dish shape in the first section. The laser communications system is connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The laser communications system comprises a second parabolic antenna with a second parabolic antenna integrated as part of the dish shape in the second section. The controller is located in the unmanned aerial vehicle and is configured to control the laser communications system to transmit incoming information in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water. The incoming information is from a receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. The controller is configured to control the radio frequency communications system to transmit outgoing information in a transmit radio frequency signal. The outgoing information is from a receive laser beam received by the laser communications system. 
     Still another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for facilitating communications with an underwater platform. Incoming information in a receive radio frequency signal is received at parabolic antenna connected to a first section of an unmanned aerial vehicle. The incoming information is transmitted in a transmit laser beam from a second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water. The second section is moveably connected to the first section. 
     The features and functions can be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yet other embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrative embodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and features thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a pictorial illustration of a communications environment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a pictorial illustration of a communications environment in which an unmanned aerial vehicle facilitates information exchange for a submarine in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is an illustration of an isometric view of an unmanned aerial vehicle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 3  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 3  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a camera system in a second section in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is an illustration of a movement system in a camera system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is an illustration of a movement system in a camera system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a camera system in a first section in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 9  with the camera system having a +45 degree angle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a camera system in a first section having a −45 degree angle in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle configured to physically transfer data in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is another illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle configured to physically transfer data in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is an illustration of a block diagram of a communications environment in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is an illustration of a block diagram of a radio frequency communications system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is an illustration of a block diagram of an implementation of a laser communications system accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  is an illustration of a camera system for a periscope function in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for deploying an unmanned aerial vehicle to facilitate communications with an underwater platform in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for facilitating communications within an underwater platform in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for facilitating communications within an underwater platform in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and 
         FIG. 21  is an illustration of a block diagram of a data processing system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     With reference now to the figures and, in particular, with reference to  FIG. 1 , a pictorial illustration of a communications environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Communications environment  100  is an environment in which submerged submersible platforms, such that underwater platform  102  can communicate using radio frequency signals. In this illustrative example, underwater platform  102  is a submarine. 
     In this illustrative example, underwater platform  102  can communicate with ground station  104  via satellite  106  using radio frequency signals. Underwater platform  102  can also communicate with aircraft  108  using radio frequency signals. The communications can occur even when underwater platform  102  is submerged beneath surface  110  of body of water  112 . In this example, body of water  112  is an ocean. In an illustrative example, the communications can be facilitated using communications system  113 , which comprises unmanned aerial vehicle  114  deployed from underwater platform  102 . 
     This deployment of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be performed while underwater platform  102  is submerged in body of water  112  or on surface  110  of body of water  112 . In the depicted example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is configured for underwater movement and aerial flight. In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be deployed from underwater platform  102 , move upward through body of water  112  to surface  110 , transition to aerial flight, and move into a position over underwater platform  102 . In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is a hybrid drone that has both underwater and in air capabilities. 
     While located in underwater platform  102 , unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be connected to underwater platform  102 . This connection can be used to facilitate the transfer of at least one data, power, or other signals. For example, first physical connector  115  for unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be connected to second physical connector  117  in underwater platform  102 . When first physical connector is connected to a second physical connector, stored information in underwater platform  102  can be transferred from unmanned aerial vehicle  114  to underwater platform  102 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 2 , a pictorial illustration of a communications environment in which an unmanned aerial vehicle facilitates information exchange for a submarine is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In the illustrative examples, the same reference numeral may be used in more than one figure. This reuse of a reference numeral in different figures represents the same element in the different figures. 
     In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can operate to receive incoming information in receive radio frequency signal  200  from satellite  106 . As depicted, receive radio frequency signal  200  originates from ground station  104  with satellite  106  relaying receive radio frequency signal  200  to unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     As depicted, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can place incoming information obtained from receive radio frequency signal  200  into transmit laser beam  202 . For example, transmit laser beam  202  can have a wavelength of 520 nm to travel with reduced attenuation in seawater. 
     In this example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can transmit the incoming information in transmit laser beam  202  to underwater platform  102  submerged in body of water  112 . As a result, underwater platform  102  can receive the incoming information transmitted in receive radio frequency signal  200  while remaining submerged in body of water  112  using unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is located directly over underwater platform  102 . Being positioned directly over underwater platform  102  means that unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is positioned such that when transmit laser beam  202  is emitted downward, transmit laser beam  202  can be received by underwater platform  102 . With this position, transmit laser beam  202  can be emitted in a downward direction that is substantially perpendicular to surface  110  of body of water  112  without unmanned aerial vehicle  114  needing to steer transmit laser beam  202  to reach underwater platform  102 . In other illustrative examples, transmit laser beam  202  can be steered by unmanned aerial vehicle  114  to underwater platform  102  when unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is not located directly over underwater platform  102 . 
     Further, underwater platform  102  can transmit outgoing information to ground station  104  via satellite  106  using unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . As depicted, underwater platform  102  can emit receive laser beam  204  that is received by unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . Unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can place the outgoing information into transmit radio frequency signal  206 . Unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can transmit the outgoing information in transmit radio frequency signal  206 . 
     In this example, transmit radio frequency signal  206  is directed at satellite  106 . In turn, satellite  106  relays the outgoing information in transmit radio frequency signal  206  to the destination, ground station  104 . 
     In this manner, a communications channel can be established between underwater platform  102  and ground station  104  using satellite  106  and unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . The communications channel can be one directional or bidirectional depending on the implementation. 
     The use of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  enables underwater platform  102  to receive information transmitted in radio frequency signals while underwater platform  102  is submerged under body of water  112 . Further, underwater platform  102  can transmit the outgoing information to another platform such as ground station  104  or aircraft  108  by sending the outgoing information in receive laser beam  204  to unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . In turn, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can place the outgoing information received in receive laser beam  204  into radio frequency signals that can be directed to at least one of ground station  104 , aircraft  108 , or some other suitable platform. 
     As used herein, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list of items, means different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and only one of each item in the list may be needed. In other words, “at least one of” means any combination of items and number of items may be used from the list, but not all of the items in the list are required. The item can be a particular object, a thing, or a category. 
     For example, without limitation, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” may include item A, item A and item B, or item B. This example also may include item A, item B, and item C or item B and item C. Of course, any combinations of these items can be present. In some illustrative examples, “at least one of” can be, for example, without limitation, two of item A; one of item B; and ten of item C; four of item B and seven of item C; or other suitable combinations. 
     Consequently, the use of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in facilitating communications for underwater platform  102  avoids a need for floating wire antennas that are bulky and inefficient. Additionally, the use of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  avoids underwater platform  102  needing to surface for radio frequency communications. 
     In an illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can return to underwater platform  102  when communications using radio frequency signals are no longer needed. Further, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can return to underwater platform  102  to recharge or for maintenance. 
     The illustrations of communications environment  100  in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2  are not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. Other components in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. 
     For example,  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate underwater platform  102  as a submarine, but other types of underwater platforms can be used in addition to or in place of a submarine. For example, the underwater platform can be selected from a group comprising a mobile underwater platform, a stationary underwater platform, an underwater vehicle, an unmanned underwater vehicle, a remotely operated underwater vehicle, an autonomous underwater vehicle, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater habitat, an underwater laboratory, and other suitable types of underwater platforms. 
     As another example, underwater platform  102  can communicate with other platforms in addition to or in place of ground station  104  and aircraft  108 . For example, underwater platform  102  can communicate with at least one of a space station, a surface ship, a ground vehicle, a train, an office complex, or some other mobile or stationary platform that communicates using radio frequency signals. 
     Further, although unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is depicted as being deployed while underwater platform  102  is submerged, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can also be deployed while underwater platform  102  is on surface  110  of body of water  112 . As a result, the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be performed while underwater platform  102  is at least one of submerged in body of water  112  or on surface  110  of body of water  112 . In a similar fashion, the retrieval of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can also be performed while underwater platform  102  is at least one of submerged in body of water  112  or on surface  110  of body of water  112 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 3 , an illustration of an isometric view of an unmanned aerial vehicle is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure provides an enlarged view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  shown in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 . 
     As depicted, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  comprises first section  300  and second section  302 . First section  300  is movably connected to second section  302 . 
     When one component is “connected” to another component, the connection is a physical association. For example, a first component, first section  300 , can be considered to be physically connected to a second component, second section  302 , by at least one of being secured to the second component, bonded to the second component, mounted to the second component, welded to the second component, fastened to the second component, or connected to the second component in some other suitable manner. The first component also can be connected to the second component using a third component. The first component can also be considered to be physically connected to the second component by being formed as part of the second component, an extension of the second component, or both. 
     As depicted, first section  300  and second section  302  are movable relative to each other. In this illustrative example, second section  302  and first section  300  are connected such that second section  302  points downward while first section  300  can change orientations during aerial flight of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     In this illustrative example, first section  300  and second section  302  are connected to each other by swivel joint  304 . In this illustrative example, swivel joint  304  enables first section  300  and second section  302  to move relative to each other with six degrees of freedom. In an illustrative example, swivel joint  304  can have a dampening mechanism to reduce vibrations in second section  302 . This dampening mechanism may be, for example, a high viscosity grease or lubricant which has a viscosity that reduces vibrations in second section  302 . 
     First parabolic antenna  306  is part of radio frequency communications system  307  connected to first section  300  of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . First parabolic antenna  306  comprises first parabolic reflector  308  and first feed antenna  310 . In this illustrative example, first parabolic reflector  308  is integrated into dish shape  309  of first section  300 . 
     In this illustrative example, first parabolic reflector  308  is configured to focus radio frequency waves in receive radio frequency signal  200  in  FIG. 2 . First parabolic reflector  308  can be comprised of various material such as sheet-metal, a metal screen, a wire grill, or some other suitable material. Openings can be present in first parabolic reflector  308  and these openings can be selected to be smaller than one tenth of the wavelength in these illustrative examples. 
     The shape of first parabolic reflector  308  can be selected to be within a desired fraction of the wavelength of interest such that receive radio frequency signal  200  in  FIG. 2  from different parts of first parabolic antenna  306  arrives at a focus point where first feed antenna  310  is located. 
     In an illustrative example, first feed antenna  310  can be a low gain feed antenna such as a one-half dipole. In other illustrative examples, first feed antenna  310  can be implemented using a horn. 
     As depicted, second parabolic antenna  312  is part of laser communications system  313  connected to second section  302  of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . As depicted, second parabolic antenna  312  comprises second parabolic reflector  314  and second feed antenna  316 . As depicted, second parabolic reflector  314  is integrated into dish shape  315  of second section  302 . 
     In this illustrative example, laser unit  318  is connected side  319  to second section  302  and is part of the laser communications system. Laser unit  318  is designed to emit transmit laser beam  202  in  FIG. 2  from side  319  of second section  302 . 
     In this depicted example, second parabolic reflector  314  is configured to focus coherent light in receive laser beam  204  in  FIG. 2 . Second parabolic reflector  314  can be, for example, a mirror reflector having the shape of a parabola. The shape of second parabolic reflector  314  can be selected such that the coherent light reflected by second parabolic reflector  314  has a focal point at second feed antenna  316 . In this illustrative example, second feed antenna  316  can include an optical-electrical modulator that detects the coherent light in receive laser beam  204  in  FIG. 2 . 
     In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  takes the form of a quadcopter having four rotors (rotor  320 , rotor  322 , rotor  324 , and rotor  326 ) connected to first section  300 . These rotors form a propulsion system for unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . Each rotor comprises a motor and a propeller in this depicted example. The different rotors can operate at different speeds to adjust the orientation of first section  300 . 
     Additionally, the rotors can also be connected to first section  300  using swivel joints. As depicted, rotor  320  is connected to first section  300  by swivel joint  328 ; rotor  322  is connected to first section  300  by swivel joint  330 ; rotor  324  is connected to first section  300  by swivel joint  332 ; and rotor  326  is connected to first section  300  by swivel joint  334 . These swivel joints can be configured to enable the rotors to be positioned relative to first section  300  with six degrees of freedom. 
     Further, information processing components in first section  300  and second section  302  can communicate with each other using link  336 . Link  336  can facilitate the transfer of at least one of electrical signals or optical signals. In this illustrative example, link  336  is comprised of at least one of an ethernet cable, an optical cable, an optical fiber, a universal serial bus cable, or some other suitable type of connector that enables the transmission of information between first section  300  and second section  302 . The different components illustrated for unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in this figure can be powered by unmanned aerial vehicle power source  337 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 4 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 3  is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a cross-sectional view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is shown taken along lines  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . 
     As seen in this cross-sectional view, first section  300  has dish shape  309  and second section  302  has dish shape  315 . In this example, these dish shapes describe the shapes of the sections. For example, dish shape  309  can be the shape of first surface  400  of first section  300  and dish shape  315  can be the shape of second surface  402  of second section  302 . In another illustrative example, these dish shapes can describe the overall shape of at least one of first section  300  or second section  302 . 
     The parameters for describing the curve for dish shape  309  and dish shape  315  can be different between first section  300  and second section  302 . In other words, dish shape  309  for first section  300  and dish shape  315  for second section  302  do not necessarily have the same dimensions although they both have the “dish shape”. 
     For example, first surface  400  and second surface  402  are defined by parabolas used in the parabolic reflectors that are connected to or integrated as part of first surface  400  and second surface  402 . In this example, the parameters defining the shape of the parabolas can be the same or different between first surface  400  and second surface  402  depending on the implementation. 
     For example, the parabola for first surface  400  can have a shape based on providing a desired level of focusing of receive radio frequency signal  200  in  FIG. 2  at first parabolic reflector  308 . The parabola for second surface  402  can be based on a shape that is desired for focusing the coherent light in receive laser beam  204  in  FIG. 2  at second feed antenna  316 . 
     As depicted in this cross-sectional view, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  includes controller  404 . In this example, controller  404  is located in first section  300 . Controller  404  can be implemented in hardware, software, or both hardware and software. In other illustrative examples, controller  404  can be located in second section  302  or distributed between both first section  300  and second section  302 . 
     In this depicted example, controller  404  is configured to control operation of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . The operations can include, for example, controlling flight of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  during aerial flight, controlling movement of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in body of water  112  in  FIGS. 1-2 , receiving receive radio frequency signal  200  in  FIG. 2 , receiving receive laser beam  204  in  FIG. 2 , transmitting transmit radio frequency signal  206  in  FIG. 2 , transmitting transmit laser beam  202  in  FIG. 2 , or other suitable operations performed by unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     With reference next to  FIG. 5 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 3  is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a cross-sectional view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is shown taken along lines  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . 
     In this view, first section  300  is tilted relative to second section  302 . The orientation of first section  300  can be changed to point towards a source of receive radio frequency signal  200  in  FIG. 2  or to direct transmit radio frequency signal  206  in  FIG. 2  to a target. 
     The change in orientation of first section  300  can be controlled by the operation of the rotors. For example, the rotors can tilt using the swivel joints to control a change in the orientation of first section  300 . In another example, the speed at which individual rotors operate can be selected to control the orientation of first section  300 . 
     As depicted, second section  302  hangs from first section  300  with second parabolic antenna  312  pointing downward during an aerial flight of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . As shown, second section  302  is moveable relative to first section  300  such that second parabolic antenna  312  on second section  302  remains pointing downward even when first section  300  changes orientation. This positioning of second section  302  reduces a need to steer transmit laser beam  202  in  FIG. 2  when unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is positioned directly over underwater platform  102  (e.g., as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). 
     The illustrations of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in  FIGS. 3-5  are not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be implemented. For example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can have other numbers of rotors other than four rotors as depicted in the figures. For example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can have three rotors, five rotors, eight rotors, or some other number of rotors. 
     As used herein, a “number of,” when used with reference to items, means one or more items. For example, a “number of rotors” is one or more rotors. 
     In yet another illustrative example, the rotors can be located on at least one of first section  300  or second section  302 . The rotors can be located on second section  302  if the orientation of first section  300  and second section  302  can be controlled by a mechanical mechanism other than using swivel joint  304 . 
     Further, dimensions for first section  300  and second section  302  can be different. In other words, first section  300  can be wider or taller than second section  302  depending on the particular implementation. Further, parabolas shown in the cross-sectional views for first parabolic reflector  308  and second parabolic reflector  314  can have different dimensions from each other. For example, a hydraulic system can be used in addition to or in place of swivel joint  304  to control the orientation of first section  300  and second section  302  relative to each other. 
     In  FIG. 6 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a camera system in a second section is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a cross-sectional view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is shown taken along lines  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3  with the addition of camera system  600 . 
     In this view, camera system  600  can be used with unmanned aerial vehicle  114  that can provide a periscope function. As depicted, camera system  600  comprises camera  602  and camera track  604 . For example, camera  602  can generate images of the environment around unmanned aerial vehicle  114  and send those images to underwater platform  102  in  FIGS. 1-2 . These images can be sent in transmit laser beam  202  in  FIG. 2 . As a result, underwater platform  102  can remain submerged and may be submerged deeper than typically possible with a conventional periscope. 
     As depicted, camera track  604  can be configured in a number of different ways. For example, camera  602  can be rigidly connected to camera track  604 . In this example, camera track  604  can be configured to move. In other words, camera track  604  can rotate in second section  302  about axis  606 . 
     In another illustrative example, camera  602  is movably connected to camera track  604 . In this example, camera track  604  does not move. Instead, camera  602  can move along camera track  604 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 7 , an illustration of a movement system in a camera system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, camera  602  is secured to camera track  604 . Camera track  604  is movable with respect to first section  300 . 
     As depicted, camera system  600  can include a movement system  701  comprising motor  700  and gear  702 . In this illustrative example, gear  702  engages teeth  704  on camera track  604 . With teeth  704 , camera track  604  can be a gear that is part of a circular gear system including gear  702 . As depicted, movement system  701  includes movement power source  705  that operates to provide power to motor  700 . In this example, movement power source  705  can be separate from unmanned aerial vehicle power source  337  for unmanned aerial vehicle  114  and camera power source  703  for camera  602 . 
     Motor  700  can rotate gear  702  causing camera track  604  with camera  602  to move. This movement can be in the direction of arrow  706 . The movement can be a rotational movement in at least one of a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , an illustration of a movement system in a camera system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example, camera track  604  is not movable and camera  602  is movably connected to camera track  604 . 
     As depicted in this example, camera system  600  can include a movement system in the form of motorized wheel  800  comprising motor  802  and wheel  804 . Wheel  804  is moveable connected to camera track  604 . For example, camera track  604  can include a channel in which wheel  804  is movably secured. 
     In this example, camera  602  is connected to wheel  804 . Motor  802  is configured to rotate wheel  804  causing wheel  804  to move within camera track  604 . This movement can move camera  602  along camera track  604  in the direction of arrow  806 . 
     As depicted, wheel cover  808  is an example of another component that may be part of motorized wheel  800 . Wheel cover  808  can keep debris away from wheel  804 . 
     In another illustrative example, a non-motorized wheel or other movement system can be used. For example, a barrier can be used in this example. 
     With this implementation, camera track  604  can be located in first section  300  in  FIGS. 3-6  of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . With this depicted example, the movement of wheel  804  in camera track  604  can occur when first section  300  tilts at an angle relative to a horizontal plane. Camera  602  on wheel  804  can move within camera track  604  to different positions based on gravity. As a result, camera  602  can move along camera track  604  based on mass seeking the lowest potential energy. In this example, after camera  602  reaches a desired position, first section  300  can return to a horizontal orientation. An amount of friction can be present that maintains camera  602  in the new position. Thus, the position of camera  602  can be controlled by at least one of rotating unmanned aerial vehicle  114  or tiling unmanned aerial vehicle  114  temporarily such that camera  602  slides within camera track  604  into the position due to gravity. The sliding caused by gravity can implemented using a nonmotorized wheel. Moreover, camera track  604  can be moveable about a circumference of a body of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  and prevents movement of the camera in a direction normal to a surface of the body. The body can be, for example, first section  300  or second section  302 . 
     Next,  FIG. 9  is an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with a camera system in a first section depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a cross-sectional view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is shown taken along lines  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3  with the addition of camera system  600 . 
     In this illustrative example, camera system  600  comprises camera  602  connected to first section  300 . As depicted, camera  602  in camera system  600  is secured to first section  300 . 
     Movement of camera  602  occurs through movement of first section  300 . For example, camera  602  can rotate 360 degrees through rotation of first section  300  about axis  606 . In this manner, camera  602  can generate images in a manner that allows level viewing for 360 degrees. Further, camera  602  can provide images for angle viewing through the ability of first section  300  to change orientation with six degrees of freedom. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 10 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of the unmanned aerial vehicle in  FIG. 3  with a camera system in a first section having a +45 degree angle is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this figure, first section  300  is tilted such that the angle of camera  602  is +45 degrees. 
     With reference next to  FIG. 11 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle with the camera system in a first section having a −45 degree angle is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this view, first section  300  is a position such that the angle of camera  602  is −45 degrees. 
     Further, in this illustrative example, laser unit  318  is located in the interior of second section  302 . With this interior location, opening  408  is present in second parabolic reflector  314  to enable the emission of transmit laser beam  202  (see  FIG. 2 ) through opening  1101  in second parabolic antenna  312  from laser unit  318  located within second section  302 . Optionally, transmission plate  410  can cover opening  408 . In this illustrative example, transmission plate  410  is comprised of a material that passes transmit laser beam  202  while reducing the entry of at least one of debris or moisture into second section  302 . For example, transmission plate  410  can be comprised of glass. Other materials, such as polycarbonate, can be used depending on the thickness of the material and the wavelength of transmit laser beam  202 . 
     In yet another illustrative example, laser unit  318  can be connected to side  303  of first section  300 . With this example, transmit laser beam  202  can be emitted from side  303  of first section  300 . 
     Illustrations of the viewing angles in  FIGS. 9-11  are provided as examples and not meant to limit the viewing angles that can be provided in other illustrative examples. For example, other viewing angles other than +/−45 degrees can be provided depending on the manner in which first section  300  is connected to second section  302 . For example, increased viewing angles can be provided when swivel joint  304  has a greater length to provide additional distance between first section  300  and second section  302 . 
     As a result, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in the illustrative examples depicted in  FIGS. 6-11  can provide views above the surface  110  of body of water  112  as a remote periscope deployed from underwater platform  102 . In the illustrative examples, camera  602  in camera system  600  can be positioned by movement of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  as described in  FIGS. 9-11  or with camera  602  being positioned using a camera track  604  without needing movement of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     In the illustrative examples, camera track  604  and gear  702  can form a circular gear system that moves camera  602 . In another illustrative example, camera track  604  is stationary with respect to second section  302 . With this depicted example, camera  602  is connected to motorized wheel  800  which moves in camera track  604  to move camera  602  along camera track  604 . 
     Illustrations of camera system  600  in  FIGS. 6-11  are not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be implemented. For example, camera system  600  can include one or more cameras in addition to or in place of camera  602 . These cameras can be connected to camera track  604 . In another illustrative example, the additional cameras in camera system  600  can be located on at least one of first section  300  or second section  302 . As a result, cameras can be located on one or both sections of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     Further, within the illustrative examples, camera system  600  can be included in any suitable unmanned aerial vehicle. Although camera system  600  is illustrated as included on unmanned aerial vehicle  114  having first section  300  and second section  302 , in other examples, camera system  600  is included on other unmanned aerial vehicles. For instance, camera system  600  can be included on any hybrid drone that has both underwater and in air capabilities. 
     Turning next to  FIG. 12 , an illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle configured to physically transfer data is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As depicted, a cross-sectional view of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is shown taken along lines  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 . As depicted in this example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is configured to perform free space data transfer. 
     With this illustrative example of  FIG. 12  and with further reference to  FIG. 2 , the depth of underwater platform  102  may be deeper than feasible to transmit incoming information received in receive radio frequency signal  200  in a desired manner because of attenuation of transmit laser beam  202 . Controller  404  in unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can store the incoming information in storage system  1200  located in second section  302  of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     As depicted, storage system  1200  is a hardware system that can include a set of storage devices. As used herein, a “set of,” when used with reference to items, means one or more items. For example, a “set of storage devices” is one or more storage devices. 
     The set of storage devices in storage system  1200  can be, for example, a hard drive, a solid-state drive, an optical drive, or some other suitable storage device. Controller  404  in unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can store the incoming information in storage system  1200 . 
     In this illustrative example, storage system  1200  can be configured to store the incoming information in storage system  1200  to form stored information. With the stored information in storage system  1200 , unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can submerge and move in body of water  112  to a location closer to underwater platform  102 . The closer location of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can enable transmission of the stored information in transmit laser beam  202  such that underwater platform  102  can receive the stored information in transmit laser beam  202  with less attenuation as compared to when unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is in aerial flight above surface  110  of body of water  112 . With this illustrative example, the depth of underwater platform  102  may be deeper than normally feasible to transmit information in transmit laser beam  202  in a desired manner because of attenuation of transmit laser beam  202  when traveling within body of water  112 . 
     In  FIG. 13 , another illustration of a cross-sectional view of an unmanned aerial vehicle configured to physically transfer data is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is configured to perform physical data transfer. 
     In this illustrative example, the incoming information stored in storage system  1200  may be transmitted through a physical connection to underwater platform  102 . This physical connection can be established using first physical connector  115  when unmanned aerial vehicle  114  returns to underwater platform  102  in  FIGS. 1-2 . 
     As depicted, in this illustrative example, first physical connector  115  can be a data connector, which is a physical electromechanical device that is connected to storage system  1200 . This physical connection can be an electrical or optical connection that enables the transfer of information stored in storage system  1200  to underwater platform  102  in  FIGS. 1-2 . First physical connector  115  can be selected from one of a universal serial bus (USB) connector, a USB-C connector, an ethernet connector, a fiber-optic connector, or some other suitable type of connector for transferring information. 
     In other illustrative examples, information can be transferred using other mechanisms in addition to or in place of physical data connectors and laser beams. For example, radio frequency signals can be used when unmanned aerial vehicle  114  returns to or is sufficiently close to underwater platform  102 . For example, radio frequency signals having a frequency of 2.0 GHz, 2.402 GHz to 2.480 GHz, and 5.0 GHz can be used. As another example, other electromagnetic signals such as infrared light or microwave signals can also be used to transmit information. 
     The illustration of storage system  1200  used to provide a physical transfer of information is not meant to limit the manner in which other illustrative examples can be implemented. For example, one or more storage systems can be present in addition to or in place of storage system  1200 . For example, another storage system can be located in at least one of first section  300  or second section  302 . 
     Thus, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in the examples depicted in  FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  can provide a mechanism for secure physical data transport and transmission between sources into different mediums. In an illustrative example, incoming information can be received from ground station  104  through receive radio frequency signal  200  relayed by satellite  106 . The incoming information is stored in storage system  1200 . The stored information can then be transported near or to underwater platform  102  where the stored information can be transmitted wirelessly to underwater platform  102  through body of water  112  or through a physical connection to underwater platform  102  in  FIG. 1 . 
     With reference next to  FIG. 14 , an illustration of a communications environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Communications environment  1400  is an environment that enables communications with a submerged platform. Communications environment  100  and the different components in  FIGS. 1-13  are examples of implementations for communications environment  1400  and associated components shown in block form. In an example, communications environment  100  is a physical implementation of communications environment  1400  of  FIG. 14 . 
     As depicted, communications system  1402  includes underwater platform  1404 . Underwater platform  1404  can take a number of different forms. For example, underwater platform  1404  can be selected from a group comprising a mobile underwater platform, a stationary underwater platform, an underwater vehicle, an unmanned underwater vehicle, a remotely operated underwater vehicle, an autonomous underwater vehicle, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater habitat, and an underwater laboratory. 
     In this illustrative example, communications system  1402  comprises a number of different components. As depicted, communications system  1402  includes unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 , radio frequency communications system  1408 , laser communications system  1410 , and controller  1412 . 
     In this illustrative example, radio frequency communications system  1408 , laser communications system  1410 , and controller  1412  are connected to unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . 
     As depicted, radio frequency communications system  1408  and laser communications system  1410  are in communication with controller  1412 . Laser communications system  1410  and radio frequency communications system  1408  are also in communication with each other. Laser communications system  1410  and radio frequency communications system  1408  can exchange information with each other. In this illustrative example, the communications between different components can be facilitated using a communications media such as a bus, a network, a cable, a wireless communications link, or some other type of medium. 
     In this illustrative example, radio frequency communications system  1408  can receive radio frequency signal  1414 . Additionally, radio frequency communications system  1408  can also transmit radio frequency signal  1416 . Receive radio frequency signal  1414  and transmit radio frequency signal  1416  can be selected from at least one of a high frequency radio frequency signal, a very high frequency radio frequency signal, a medium frequency radio frequency signal, an L-band frequency signal, an S-band frequency signal, a C-band frequency signal, an X-band frequency signal, a Ku-band frequency signal, a K-band frequency signal, or a Ka-band frequency signal. 
     In an illustrative example, incoming information  1418  can be present in receive radio frequency signal  1414 . Further, outgoing information  1420  can be present in transmit radio frequency signal  1416 . 
     As depicted, information can be placed into radio frequency signals in a number of different ways. For example, the information can be encoded into a receive radio frequency signal. The information can be encoded in an analog or digital form. For example, at least one of incoming information  1418  or outgoing information  1420  can be encoded using analog techniques such as frequency modulation, amplitude modulation, phase modulation, and other suitable techniques. At least one of incoming information  1418  or outgoing information  1420  can be encoded using digital techniques such as phase-shift keying, frequency-shift keying, amplitude-shift keying, quadrature amplitude modulation, and other suitable techniques. 
     As depicted, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  comprises two sections, first section  1422  and second section  1424 . First section  1422  is movably connected to second section  1424 . In other words, both sections can be movable with respect to each other. 
     In this example, radio frequency communications system  1408  is connected to first section  1422 . Laser communications system  1410  is connected to second section  1424 . 
     In this illustrative example, controller  1412  is located in computer system  1428  for unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . As depicted, controller  1412  controls the operation of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . Controller  1412  can be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. When software is used, the operations performed by controller  1412  can be implemented in program code configured to run on hardware, such as a processor unit. When firmware is used, the operations performed by controller  1412  can be implemented in program code and data and stored in persistent memory to run on a processor unit. When hardware is employed, the hardware can include circuits that operate to perform the operations in controller  1412 . 
     In the illustrative examples, the hardware can take a form selected from at least one of a circuit system, an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some other suitable type of hardware configured to perform a number of operations. With a programmable logic device, the device can be configured to perform the number of operations. The device can be reconfigured at a later time or can be permanently configured to perform the number of operations. Programmable logic devices include, for example, a programmable logic array, a programmable array logic, a field programmable logic array, a field programmable gate array, and other suitable hardware devices. Additionally, the processes can be implemented in organic components integrated with inorganic components and can be comprised entirely of organic components excluding a human being. For example, the processes can be implemented as circuits in organic semiconductors. 
     Computer system  1428  is a physical hardware system that includes one or more data processing systems. When more than one data processing system is present, those data processing systems may be in communication with each other using a communications medium. The communications medium may be a network. The data processing systems may be selected from at least one of a computer, a server computer, a workstation, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, an electronic flight bag, a mobile phone, or some other suitable data processing system. When more than one data processing system is present in computer system  1428 , a process or component in computer system  1428  can be located in one data processing system or distributed between multiple data processing systems in computer system  1428 . 
     In this illustrative example, all or a portion of controller  1412  in computer system  1428  can be located in unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . In some illustrative examples, a portion of controller  1412  in computer system  1428  can be located in unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  while another portion of controller  1412  in computer system  1428  can be located in another location such as a ground station, another unmanned aerial vehicle, underwater platform  1404 , or some other location. When distributed, the different portions of controller  1412  in computer system  1428  can communicate using wireless communications links using mediums selected from at least one of a radio frequency signal, a laser beam, a microwave signal, or some other suitable wireless communications medium. Further, when a portion of controller  1412  in computer system  1428  is located in underwater platform  1404 , a physical communications link can be used when unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is located in or docked with underwater platform  1404 . 
     As depicted, underwater platform  1404  is submerged in body of water  1430 . Body of water  1430  can be, for example, an ocean, a lake, a sea, or some other body of water. Unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can be deployed by underwater platform  1404 . For example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can be located inside of underwater platform  1404  or located on the outside of underwater platform  1404 . 
     In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is configured to operate while both submerged in body of water  1430  and in air  1432 . In other words, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is configured for underwater movement  1434  and aerial flight  1436 . This movement of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can be controlled by controller  1412 . 
     With these capabilities of underwater and in-flight operation, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can also be referred to as a hybrid drone. Communications system  1402  with the hybrid drone can be a hybrid drone enabled communications system. 
     When unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is deployed from underwater platform  1404 , unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can use underwater movement  1434  to move through body of water  1430 . When reaching the surface of body of water  1430 , unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can shift to aerial flight  1436  and fly in air  1432 . This flight can position unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  over underwater platform  1404 . 
     In this illustrative example, controller  1412  is configured to control laser communications system  1410  to transmit incoming information  1418  in transmit laser beam  1438  to underwater platform  1404  submerged in body of water  1430 . Incoming information  1418  is from receive radio frequency signal  1414  received by radio frequency communications system  1408 . 
     Additionally, controller  1412  is configured to control radio frequency communications system  1408  to transmit outgoing information  1420  in transmit radio frequency signal  1416 . In this depicted example, outgoing information  1420  is from receive laser beam  1440  received by laser communications system  1410  from underwater platform  1404 . 
     In transmitting incoming information  1418  to underwater platform  1404 , controller  1412  can be configured to control laser communications system  1410  to transmit incoming information  1418  in transmit laser beam  1438  to underwater platform  1404  submerged in body of water  1430  while unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is in a location selected from at least one of submerged in body of water  1430  or above body of water  1430 . In this example, incoming information  1418  in receive radio frequency signal  1414  is received by radio frequency communications system  1408 . 
     Further, controller  1412  can be configured to control position  1442  of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . For example, controller  1412  can be configured to control position  1442  of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  such that unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  is located directly over underwater platform  1404 . In this illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can be in position  1442  directly over underwater platform  1404  such that transmit laser beam  1438  emitted from unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  does not have to be steered towards underwater platform  1404 . In this example, the positioning of second section  1424  is such that transmit laser beam  1438  is pointed downwards and does not need to be steered at an angle to reach underwater platform  1404 . 
     In another illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can also include storage system  1444 . Storage system  1444  can be located in at least one of first section  1422  or second section  1424  of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . In this illustrative example, storage system  1444  comprises a group of storage devices. The storage devices can be, for example, selected from at least one of a hard disk drive, a flash drive, a solid-state drive, an optical drive, or some other suitable type storage device. 
     As depicted, storage system  1444  can store at least one of incoming information  1418  or outgoing information  1420  as stored information  1446 . In one illustrative example, stored information  1446  can be transmitted to underwater platform  1404  when storage system  1444  is physically connected to underwater platform  1404 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 15 , an illustration of a block diagram of a radio frequency communications system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. An example of components that can be used to implement radio frequency communications system  1408  in  FIG. 14  is shown in this figure. In an illustrative example, radio frequency communications system  307  is an example of a physical implementation of radio frequency communications system  1408 . 
     As depicted, radio frequency communications system  1408  can include at least one of receiver  1502  or transmitter  1500 . Alternatively, radio frequency communications system  1408  can include transceiver  1504  in place of receiver  1502  and transmitter  1500 . Receiver  1502  and transceiver  1504  can output information in response to receiving a radio frequency signal encoded with information, such as receive radio frequency signal  1414  with incoming information  1418  in  FIG. 14 . 
     This information can be sent to laser communications system  1410  in  FIG. 14  for encoding into an optical signal such as transmit laser beam  1438  in  FIG. 14 . Transmit laser beam  1438  can then be emitted towards underwater platform  1404  in  FIG. 14 . 
     Radio frequency communications system  1408  also includes antenna system  1506 . Antenna system  1506  comprises a group of antennas. As used herein, a “group of,” when used with reference to items, means one or more items. For example, a “group of antennas” is one or more antennas. 
     When more than one antenna is present in antenna system  1506 , the antennas can be the same type or can be different types. In this illustrative example, antenna system  1506  comprises first parabolic reflector  1510  and first feed antenna  1512 . One or more of these types of antennas can be present in antenna system  1506 . For example, a high-frequency antenna can be present in the form of a wire connected to unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  in  FIG. 14 . The wire has a length that is sufficient to receive radio frequency signals such as high-frequency radio frequency signals. 
     Turning to  FIG. 16 , an illustration of a block diagram of an implementation of a laser communications system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. This figure is an example of one manner in which laser communications system  1410  in  FIG. 14  can be implemented. In an illustrative example, laser communications system  313  in  FIG. 3  is an example of a physical implementation of laser communications system  1410 . As depicted, laser communications system  1410  comprises laser source  1600 , electrical-optical modulator  1602 , and second parabolic antenna  1604 . 
     In this illustrative example, laser source  1600  can generate transmit laser beam  1438 . Laser source  1600  can take a number of forms. For example, laser source  1600  can include at least one of a gas laser, a chemical laser, a solid-state laser, a semiconductor laser, or some other suitable type of laser. 
     The wavelength of transmit laser beam  1438  can be selected to increase the distance that transmit laser beam  1438  can travel in water and, in particular, in seawater. For example, transmit laser beam  1438  can have a wavelength selected for a desired transmission within water such as body of water  112  in  FIGS. 1-2 . For example, wavelengths for transmit laser beam  1438  can be from about 420 nanometers to about 510 nanometers. For coastal waters, the wavelengths may be selected from between 520 nanometers to 580 nanometers. 
     Electrical-optical modulator  1602  is a hardware system or device. Electrical-optical modulator  1602  is configured to control laser source  1600  to encode information, such as incoming information  1418  in  FIG. 14  in transmit laser beam  1438  emitted by laser source  1600 . 
     In other examples, electrical-optical modulator  1602  can receive transmit laser beam  1438  from laser source  1600  and modulate transmit laser beam  1438  to encode incoming information  1418  in  FIG. 14 . In an illustrative example, electrical-optical modulator  1602  can modulate at least one of amplitude, frequency, phase, polarization, pulse width, or other characteristics of the laser beam to encode data in the laser beam. 
     In an illustrative example, transmit laser beam  1438  can be emitted from a number of different locations. For example, transmit laser beam  1438  can be emitted from at least one of second section  1424 , side  1425  of second section  1424 , opening  1601  in second parabolic antenna  1604 , second feed antenna  1608 , side  1423  of first section  1422 , or from some other suitable location on unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . 
     In an illustrative example, second parabolic antenna  1604  can include a number of different components. For example, second parabolic antenna  1604  can comprise second parabolic reflector  1606  and second feed antenna  1608 . 
     As depicted, second parabolic reflector  1606  can be used to focus receive laser beam  1440  to reduce the effects of attenuation that may occur. Second parabolic reflector  1606  can be, for example, a mirror reflector having a shape of a parabola. The shape can be selected such that coherent light reflected by second parabolic reflector  1606  has a focal point at second feed antenna  1608 . 
     In this illustrative example, second feed antenna  1608  can include optical-electrical modulator  1610  that detects the coherent light in receive laser beam  1440 . Optical-electrical modulator  1610  is a hardware system or device that detects receive laser beam  1440  and extracts outgoing information  1420  from receive laser beam  1440  received from underwater platform  1404 . 
     Optical-electrical modulator  1610  can employ any number of known techniques or systems for extracting information from optical signals such as laser beams. For example, a photodiode can be used to convert photons in a laser beam into an electrical current. As depicted, outgoing information  1420  in the electrical current can then be encoded into transmit radio frequency signal  1416  for transmission or used for other purposes. 
     In this illustrative example, when laser communications system  1410  is located in second section  1424 , second section  1424  can be movable such that second section  1424  hangs from first section  1422  with second parabolic antenna  1604  pointing downward during an aerial flight of unmanned aerial vehicle  1406 . In an illustrative example, first section  1422  has dish shape  309  in which first parabolic antenna  1508  in radio frequency communications system  1408  can be integrated in dish shape  309 . First parabolic antenna  1508  can be configured to communicate with at least one of a satellite, an aircraft, a ship, a land vehicle, or some other platform. Second section  1424  has dish shape  315  in which second parabolic antenna  1604  in laser communications system  1410  can be integrated in dish shape  315 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 17 , an illustration of a camera system for a periscope function is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, camera system  1700  comprises a group of cameras  1702  and positioning system  1704 . 
     As depicted, camera system  1700  can be connected to at least one of first section  1422  or second section  1424  in  FIG. 14 . Camera system  1700  is configured to generate images  1706 . Images  1706  can be still images or form a video feed of an environment around unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  in  FIG. 14 . Images  1706  can be sent to underwater platform  1404  in transmit laser beam  1438  emitted by laser communications system  1410 . 
     In this illustrative example, positioning system  1704  comprises camera track  1708 . Camera track  1708  enables positioning of the group of cameras  1702 . For example, camera  1710  in the group of cameras  1702  can be connected to camera track  1708 . In this illustrative example, camera  1710  is movable along camera track  1708  to change the position of camera  1710 . In one illustrative example, camera  1710  is rigidly attached to camera track  1708 . With this example, camera track  1708  can move or rotate to move camera  1710  to different positions. In another illustrative example, camera track  1708  may be fixed while camera  1710  is movably connected to camera track  1708 . 
     In this manner, camera system  1700  can provide a periscope function for underwater platform  1404 . With camera system  1700  connected to unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  in  FIG. 14 , underwater platform  1404  may receive a view above body of water  1430  in  FIG. 14 . 
     The illustrations of communications environment  1400  and the different components in  FIGS. 14-17  are not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. Other components in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Some components may be unnecessary. Also, the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. One or more of these blocks may be combined, divided, or combined and divided into different blocks when implemented in an illustrative embodiment. 
     For example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can include one or more sections in addition to or in place of first section  1422  and second section  1424 . In other illustrative examples, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can include more than one antenna system for at least one of radio frequency communications system  1408  or laser communications system  1410 . For example, laser communications system  1410  can include a third parabolic antenna that is configured to receive or transmit laser beams between unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  and underwater platform  1404 . 
     In yet another illustrative example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  can facilitate communications for another underwater platform in addition to or in place of underwater platform  1404 . As another example, although not shown in this example, unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  has a propulsion system. The propulsion system can take the form of one or more rotors in the illustrative examples. 
     Thus, one or more illustrative examples can provide one or more technical solutions to overcome a technical problem with communicating with a submerged underwater platform. One or more illustrative examples enable sending information in a radio frequency signal with an underwater platform without the underwater platform surfacing. Further, one or more illustrative examples avoid needing to employ floating antennas or buoys. 
     In one illustrative example, an unmanned aerial vehicle is configured for underwater movement and aerial flight. The unmanned aerial vehicle can be deployed from the underwater platform submerged in a body of water and move through the body of water to a surface of the body of water. The unmanned vehicle can then transition into the aerial flight and receive a radio frequency signal containing incoming information. The incoming information in the radio frequency signal can be sent to the underwater platform by the unmanned aerial vehicle in one or more laser beams. Further, outgoing information can be received from the underwater platform in a laser beam. The outgoing information can then be transmitted by the unmanned aerial vehicle using the radio frequency signal. As a result, one or more issues with attenuation of radio frequency signals can be avoided through the use of the unmanned aerial vehicle establishing a communications link using the radio frequency signals and laser beams. 
     Further, the transmission of the incoming information to the underwater platform can be performed by the unmanned aerial vehicle while the unmanned aerial vehicle is in the air or submerged in the body of water. Depending on the depth at which the underwater platform is located, the unmanned aerial vehicle may be submerged and move closer to the underwater platform before transmitting the incoming information in a laser beam. In this manner, potential attenuation issues based on the distance between the unmanned aerial vehicle and the underwater platform can be reduced through this mode of operation. With the movement of the unmanned aerial vehicle into the body of water, the incoming information can be temporarily stored in a storage system in the unmanned aerial vehicle for later transmission when an optimal or desired distance is reached for transmitting the stored information in a laser to the underwater platform. In yet another illustrative example, the incoming information can be stored in the storage system. This incoming information can then be transmitted to the underwater platform when a physical connection is made between the unmanned aerial vehicle and the underwater platform. 
     Further, an illustrative example provides a periscope function to the underwater platform using the camera system in the unmanned aerial vehicle. Images generated by the camera system are transmitted to the underwater platform in a laser beam. As a result, the periscope function can be provided to the underwater platform and the underwater platform can be at greater depths than normally used with conventional periscopes. 
     Turning next to  FIG. 18 , an illustration of a flowchart of a process for deploying an unmanned aerial vehicle to facilitate communications with an underwater platform is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated in  FIG. 18  can be implemented in communications environment  100  or communications environment  1400  using at least one of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in  FIG. 1-13  or unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  in  FIG. 14 . 
     The process in  FIG. 18  can be implemented in hardware, software, or both. When implemented in software, the process can take the form of program code that is run by one or more processor units located in one or more hardware devices in one or more computer systems. For example, the process can be implemented in controller  404  in  FIG. 4  or controller  1412  in  FIG. 14 . 
     The process begins by deploying unmanned aerial vehicle  114  while underwater platform  102  is submerged in body of water  112  (operation  1800 ). The process moves unmanned aerial vehicle  114  through body of water  112  to surface  110  of body of water  112  (operation  1802 ). 
     The process flies unmanned aerial vehicle  114  to a position over underwater platform  102  submerged in body of water  112  (operation  1804 ). Unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can be directly over underwater platform  102  such that a laser beam emitted from unmanned aerial vehicle  114  does not have to be steered towards underwater platform  102 . In other illustrative examples, the position over underwater platform  102  is not directly over underwater platform  102 . With this type of positioning, unmanned aerial vehicle  114  can steer the laser beam to underwater platform  102 . 
     The process establishes a communications link for underwater platform  102  using the unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in which unmanned aerial vehicle  114  uses both radio frequency signals and laser beams to transmit information between underwater platform  102  and other sources or recipients of the information (operation  1806 ). 
     When communications are complete, the process moves unmanned aerial vehicle  114  from aerial flight in the air to underwater movement in the body of water  112  (operation  1808 ). The process moves unmanned aerial vehicle  114  to return to underwater platform  102  (operation  1810 ). The process terminates thereafter. At underwater platform  102 , maintenance, recharging, data transfer, and other operations can be performed for unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . 
     Turning next to  FIG. 19 , an illustration of a flowchart of a process for facilitating communications within an underwater platform is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated in  FIG. 19  can be implemented in communications environment  100  or communications environment  1400  using at least one of unmanned aerial vehicle  114  in  FIGS. 1-13  or unmanned aerial vehicle  1406  in  FIG. 14 . 
     The process in  FIG. 19  can be implemented in hardware, software, or both. When implemented in software, the process can take the form of program code that is run by one or more processor units located in one or more hardware devices in one or more computer systems. For example, the process can be implemented in controller  404  in  FIG. 4  or controller  1412  in  FIG. 14 . 
     The process begins by receiving incoming information in receive radio frequency signal  200  at a radio frequency communications system  307  connected to a first section  300  of an unmanned aerial vehicle  114  (operation  1900 ). In operation  1900 , the receive radio frequency signal  200  can be received by a first parabolic reflector  308  that is part of the radio frequency communications system  307 . 
     The process transmits the incoming information in a transmit laser beam  202  from a second section  302  of the unmanned aerial vehicle  114  to an underwater platform  102  submerged in a body of water  112  (operation  1902 ). The process terminates thereafter. In this illustrative example, transmission of the incoming information in the transmit laser beam  202  to underwater platform  102  can be performed while unmanned aerial vehicle  114  is in a location selected from at least one of submerged in body of water  112  or above body of water  112 . 
     Turning next to  FIG. 20 , an illustration of a flowchart of a process for facilitating communications within an underwater platform is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The operations depicted in this figure are examples of additional operations that can be performed in the process for facilitating communications for underwater platform  102 . In this example, a parabolic reflector in first section  300  is first parabolic reflector  308 . Second section  302  has second parabolic reflector  314  configured to receive a laser beam. 
     The process receives outgoing information in a receive laser beam  204  at laser communications system  313  (operation  2000 ). In operation  2000 , the receive laser beam  204  can be received by second parabolic reflector  314  in laser communications system  313  connected to the second section  302  of unmanned aerial vehicle  114 . Receive laser beam  204  is received from underwater platform  102  submerged in body of water  112 . 
     The process transmits the outgoing information in transmit radio frequency signal  206  from first parabolic reflector  308  in first section  300  (operation  2002 ). The process terminates thereafter. 
     The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodiments illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of some possible implementations of apparatuses and methods in an illustrative embodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or block diagrams can represent at least one of a module, a segment, a function, or a portion of an operation or step. For example, one or more of the blocks can be implemented as program code, hardware, or a combination of the program code and hardware. When implemented in hardware, the hardware can, for example, take the form of integrated circuits that are manufactured or configured to perform one or more operations in the flowcharts or block diagrams. When implemented as a combination of program code and hardware, the implementation may take the form of firmware. Each block in the flowcharts or the block diagrams can be implemented using special purpose hardware systems that perform the different operations or combinations of special purpose hardware and program code run by the special purpose hardware. 
     In some alternative implementations of an illustrative embodiment, the function or functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be performed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be performed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Also, other blocks may be added in addition to the illustrated blocks in a flowchart or block diagram. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 21 , an illustration of a block diagram of a data processing system is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Data processing system  2100  can also be used to implement controller  404  in  FIG. 4  and/or computer system  1428  in  FIG. 14 . In this illustrative example, data processing system  2100  includes communications framework  2102 , which provides communications between processor unit  2104 , memory  2106 , persistent storage  2108 , communications unit  2110 , input/output (I/O) unit  2112 , and display  2114 . In this example, communications framework  2102  takes the form of a bus system. 
     Processor unit  2104  serves to execute instructions for software that can be loaded into memory  2106 . Processor unit  2104  includes one or more processors. For example, processor unit  2104  can be selected from at least one of a multicore processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a physics processing unit (PPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, or some other suitable type of processor. Further, processor unit  2104  can be implemented using one or more heterogeneous processor systems in which a main processor is present with secondary processors on a single chip. As another illustrative example, processor unit  2104  can be a symmetric multi-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type on a single chip. 
     Memory  2106  and persistent storage  2108  are examples of storage devices  2116 . A storage device is any piece of hardware that is capable of storing information, such as, for example, without limitation, at least one of data, program code in functional form, or other suitable information either on a temporary basis, a permanent basis, or both on a temporary basis and a permanent basis. Storage devices  2116  may also be referred to as computer-readable storage devices in these illustrative examples. Memory  2106 , in these examples, can be, for example, a random-access memory or any other suitable volatile or non-volatile storage device. Persistent storage  2108  can take various forms, depending on the particular implementation. 
     For example, persistent storage  2108  may contain one or more components or devices. For example, persistent storage  2108  can be a hard drive, a solid-state drive (SSD), a flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination of the above. The media used by persistent storage  2108  also can be removable. For example, a removable hard drive can be used for persistent storage  2108 . 
     Communications unit  2110 , in these illustrative examples, provides for communications with other data processing systems or devices. In these illustrative examples, communications unit  2110  is a network interface card. 
     Input/output unit  2112  allows for input and output of data with other devices that can be connected to data processing system  2100 . For example, input/output unit  2112  can provide a connection for user input through at least one of a keyboard, a mouse, or some other suitable input device. Further, input/output unit  2112  can send output to a printer. Display  2114  provides a mechanism to display information to a user. 
     Instructions for at least one of the operating system, applications, or programs can be located in storage devices  2116 , which are in communication with processor unit  2104  through communications framework  2102 . The processes of the different embodiments can be performed by processor unit  2104  using computer-implemented instructions, which can be located in a memory, such as memory  2106 . 
     These instructions are referred to as program code, computer usable program code, or computer-readable program code that can be read and executed by a processor in processor unit  2104 . The program code in the different embodiments can be embodied on different physical or computer-readable storage media, such as memory  2106  or persistent storage  2108 . 
     Program code  2118  is located in a functional form on computer-readable media  2120  that is selectively removable and can be loaded onto or transferred to data processing system  2100  for execution by processor unit  2104 . Program code  2118  and computer-readable media  2120  form computer program product  2122  in these illustrative examples. In an illustrative example, computer-readable media  2120  is computer-readable storage media  2124 . 
     In these illustrative examples, computer-readable storage media  2124  is a physical or tangible storage device used to store program code  2118  rather than a media that propagates or transmits program code  2118 . Computer-readable storage media  2124 , as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire. 
     Alternatively, program code  2118  can be transferred to data processing system  2100  using a computer-readable signal media. The computer-readable signal media are signals and can be, for example, a propagated data signal containing program code  2118 . For example, the computer-readable signal media can be at least one of an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, or any other suitable type of signal. These signals can be transmitted over connections, such as wireless connections, optical fiber cable, coaxial cable, a wire, or any other suitable type of connection. 
     Further, as used herein, “computer-readable media  2120 ” can be singular or plural. For example, program code  2118  can be located in computer-readable media  2120  in the form of a single storage device or system. In another example, program code  2118  can be located in computer-readable media  2120  that is distributed in multiple data processing systems. In other words, some instructions in program code  2118  can be located in one data processing system while other instructions in program code  2118  can be located in one data processing system. For example, a portion of program code  2118  can be located in computer-readable media  2120  in a server computer while another portion of program code  2118  can be located in computer-readable media  2120  located in a set of client computers. 
     The different components illustrated for data processing system  2100  are not meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in which different embodiments can be implemented. In some illustrative examples, one or more of the components may be incorporated in or otherwise form a portion of, another component. For example, memory  2106 , or portions thereof, can be incorporated in processor unit  2104  in some illustrative examples. The different illustrative embodiments can be implemented in a data processing system including components in addition to or in place of those illustrated for data processing system  2100 . Other components shown in  FIG. 21  can be varied from the illustrative examples shown. The different embodiments can be implemented using any hardware device or system capable of running program code  2118 . 
     Some features of the illustrative examples are described in the following clauses. These clauses are examples of features not intended to limit other illustrative examples. 
     Clause 1: A communications system for an underwater platform, wherein the communications system comprises: an unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is moveably connected to the second section; a radio frequency communications system connected to the first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the radio frequency communications system comprises a first parabolic antenna; a laser communications system connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the laser communications system comprises a second parabolic antenna; and a controller configured to: control the laser communications system to transmit incoming information in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water, wherein the incoming information is from a receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. 
     Clause 2: The communications system according to clause 1, wherein the controller is configured to: control the radio frequency communications system to transmit outgoing information in a transmit radio frequency signal, wherein the outgoing information is from a receive laser beam received by the laser communications system. 
     Clause 3: The communications system according to one of clauses 1 or 2, wherein the laser communications system emits the transmit laser beam from at least one of the second section, a side of the second section, the side of the first section, or an opening in the second parabolic antenna. 
     Clause 4: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, or 3, wherein in controlling the laser communications system to transmit the incoming information in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water, wherein the incoming information is from the receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system, the controller is configured to: control the laser communications system to transmit the incoming information in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water while the unmanned aerial vehicle is in a location selected from at least one of submerged in the body of water or above the body of water, wherein the incoming information is in the receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. 
     Clause 5: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the first section has a dish shape in which the first parabolic antenna in the radio frequency communications system is integrated in the dish shape of the first section and the second section has a dish shape in which the second parabolic antenna in the laser communications system is integrated in the dish shape of the second section. 
     Clause 6: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein the second section is movable such that the second section hangs from the first section with the second parabolic antenna pointing downward during an aerial flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     Clause 7: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the controller is configured to control a position of the unmanned aerial vehicle such that the unmanned aerial vehicle is located directly over the underwater platform. 
     Clause 8: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 further comprising: a camera system connected to at least one of the first section or the second section, wherein the camera system generates images sent in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform. 
     Clause 9: The communications system according to clause 8, wherein the camera system comprises: a camera connected to a camera track, wherein the camera is moveable along the camera track to change a position of the camera. 
     Clause 10: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 further comprising: a storage system in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to store the incoming information in the storage system to form stored information; and a first physical connector in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the first physical connector is connected to the storage system; wherein the controller is configured to store the incoming information in the storage system to form the stored information and transmit the stored information to the underwater platform when the first physical connector is connected to a second physical connector in the underwater platform. 
     Clause 11: The communications system according to one of clauses 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10, wherein the receive radio frequency signal and the transmit radio frequency signal are selected from at least one of a high frequency radio frequency signal, a very high frequency radio frequency signal, a medium frequency radio frequency signal, an L-band frequency signal, an S-band frequency signal, a C-band frequency signal, an X-band frequency signal, a Ku-band frequency signal, a K-band frequency signal, or a Ka-band frequency signal. 
     Clause 12: The communications system according to one of clauses 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or 11, wherein the underwater platform is selected from a group comprising a mobile underwater platform, a stationary underwater platform, an underwater vehicle, an unmanned underwater vehicle, a remotely operated underwater vehicle, an autonomous underwater vehicle, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater habitat, and an underwater laboratory. 
     Clause 13: A communications system for an underwater platform, wherein the communications system comprises: an unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a first section having a dish shape in the first section and a second section having a dish shape in the second section, wherein the first section is moveably connected to the second section, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is configured for an underwater movement and an aerial flight; a radio frequency communications system connected to the first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the radio frequency communications system comprises a first parabolic antenna with a first parabolic reflector integrated as part of the dish shape in the first section; a laser communications system connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the laser communications system comprises a second parabolic antenna with a second parabolic reflector integrated as part of the dish shape in the second section; and a controller in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to: control the laser communications system to transmit incoming information in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water, wherein the incoming information is from a receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system; and control the radio frequency communications system to transmit outgoing information in a transmit radio frequency signal, wherein the outgoing information is from a receive laser beam received by the laser communications system. 
     Clause 14: The communications system according to clause 13, wherein the laser communications system emits the transmit laser beam from at least one of the second section, a side of the second section, a side of the first section, or an opening in the second parabolic reflector. 
     Clause 15: The communications system according to one of clauses 13 or 14, wherein the controller is configured to control a position of the unmanned aerial vehicle such that the unmanned aerial vehicle maintains the position that is located directly over the underwater platform. 
     Clause 16: The communications system of clause 13, 14, or 15, wherein in controlling the laser communications system to transmit the incoming information in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water, and wherein the incoming information is from the receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system, the controller is configured to: control the laser communications system to transmit the incoming information in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water while the unmanned aerial vehicle is in a location selected from at least one of submerged in the body of water or above the body of water, wherein the incoming information is from the receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. 
     Clause 17: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, or 16, wherein the second section is movable such that the second section hangs from the first section with the second parabolic reflector pointing downward during the aerial flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     Clause 18: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 further comprising: a camera system connected to at least one of the first section or the second section, wherein the camera system generates images sent in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform. 
     Clause 19: The communications system according to clause 18, wherein the camera system comprises: a camera connected to a camera track, wherein the camera is moveable along the camera track to change a position of the camera. 
     Clause 20: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 19 of further comprising: a propulsion system connected to at least one of the first section or the second section. 
     Clause 21: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20, wherein the first parabolic antenna is part of a parabolic antenna that is further configured to communicate with at least one of a satellite, an aircraft, a ship, or a land vehicle. 
     Clause 22: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, or 21, wherein the receive radio frequency signal and the transmit radio frequency signal are selected from at least one of a high frequency radio frequency signal, a very high frequency radio frequency signal, a medium frequency radio frequency signal, an L-band frequency signal, an S-band frequency signal, a C-band frequency signal, an X-band frequency signal, a Ku-band frequency signal, a K-band frequency signal, or a Ka-band frequency signal. 
     Clause 23: The communications system according to one of clauses 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22, wherein the underwater platform is selected from a group comprising a mobile underwater platform, a stationary underwater platform, an underwater vehicle, an unmanned underwater vehicle, a remotely operated underwater vehicle, an autonomous underwater vehicle, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater habitat, and an underwater laboratory. 
     Clause 24: A method for facilitating communications with an underwater platform, the method comprising: receiving incoming information in a receive radio frequency signal at a parabolic reflector connected to a first section of an unmanned aerial vehicle; and transmitting the incoming information in a transmit laser beam from a second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water. 
     Clause 25: The method according to clause 24, wherein the parabolic reflector is a first parabolic reflector and further comprising: receiving outgoing information in a receive laser beam at a second parabolic reflector connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the receive laser beam is received from the underwater platform submerged in the body of water; and transmitting the outgoing information in a transmit radio frequency signal from the first parabolic reflector in the first section. 
     Clause 26: The method according to one of clauses 24 or 25 further comprising: deploying the unmanned aerial vehicle from the underwater platform while the underwater platform is submerged in the body of water; and moving the unmanned aerial vehicle out of the body of water to a location over the underwater platform submerged in the body of water. 
     Clause 27: The method according to one of clauses 24, 25, or 26, wherein transmitting the transmit laser beam from the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water comprises: storing the incoming information in a storage system in the unmanned aerial vehicle to form stored information; submerging the unmanned aerial vehicle in the body of water after receiving the receive radio frequency signal; and transmitting the transmit laser beam from the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water while the unmanned aerial vehicle is submerged in the body of water. 
     Clause 28: The method according to one of clauses 24, 25, or 26, wherein transmitting the transmit laser beam from the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water comprises: transmitting the transmit laser beam from the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water while the unmanned aerial vehicle is above the body of water in an aerial flight. 
     Clause 29: The method according to clause 25, wherein the receive radio frequency signal and the transmit radio frequency signal are selected from at least one of a high frequency radio frequency signal, a very high frequency radio frequency signal, a medium frequency radio frequency signal, an L-band frequency signal, an S-band frequency signal, a C-band frequency signal, an X-band frequency signal, a Ku-band frequency signal, a K-band frequency signal, or a Ka-band frequency signal. 
     Clause 30: The method according to one of clauses 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, or 29, wherein the second section is moveable to remain pointing downward during an aerial flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     Clause 31: The method of according to one of clauses 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, or 30, wherein the underwater platform is selected from a group comprising a mobile underwater platform, a stationary underwater platform, an underwater vehicle, an unmanned underwater vehicle, a remotely operated underwater vehicle, an autonomous underwater vehicle, a submarine, a submersible, an underwater habitat, and an underwater laboratory. 
     Clause B1: A communications system for an underwater platform comprising: an unmanned aerial vehicle; a laser communications system connected the unmanned aerial vehicle; a camera system connected to the unmanned aerial vehicle; and a controller in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to: control the camera system to generate images using the camera system; and control the laser communications system to transmit the images to the underwater platform in a laser beam. 
     Clause B2: The communications system according to clause B1, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle comprises a first section having a dish shape and a second section having the dish shape, wherein the first section is moveably connected to the second section, and wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is configured for an underwater movement and an aerial flight, and the camera system is connected to at least one of the first section or the second section. 
     Clause B3: The communications system according to one of clauses B1 or B2, wherein a position of the camera system is controlled by at least one of rotating the unmanned aerial vehicle or tilting the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     Clause B4: The communications system according to one of clauses B1, B2, or B3, wherein the camera system comprises: a camera track in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the camera track is moveable; a camera in the camera system, wherein the camera is connected to the camera track; and a movement system in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the movement system moves the camera track to change a position of the camera. 
     Clause B5: The communications system according to clause B4, wherein the camera track is moveable about a circumference of a body of the unmanned aerial vehicle and prevents movement of the camera in a direction normal to a surface of the body. 
     Clause B6: The communications system according to clause B4, wherein the position of the camera is controlled by at least one of rotating the unmanned aerial vehicle or tiling the unmanned aerial vehicle temporarily such that the camera slides within the camera track into the position due to gravity. 
     In clause B6, mass seeks lowest potential energy. In this clause, the movement system does not have a motor, but allows the camera to slide or move when the unmanned aerial vehicle is tilted. 
     Clause B7: The communications system according to one of clauses B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, or B6, wherein the camera system comprises: the movement system that is moveable along the camera track in the unmanned aerial vehicle; and the camera connected to a movement system, wherein the movement system is configured to move the camera along the camera track. The movement system can be a motorized wheel that moves in the camera track. 
     Clause B8: The communications system according to clause B7, further comprising: a track motor in the movement system that is separate from a set of unmanned aerial vehicle motors for moving the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     Clause B9: The communications system according to clause B7 further comprising: a movement power source for the movement system, wherein the power source is separate from an unmanned aerial vehicle power source for the unmanned aerial vehicle and a camera power source for the camera. 
     Clause B10: A communications system for an underwater platform, wherein the communications system comprises: an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is configured for an underwater movement and an aerial flight; a radio frequency communications system connected to a first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle; a laser communications system connected to a second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle; a storage system in the unmanned aerial vehicle; a controller in the unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to: control the radio frequency communications system to receive incoming information in a receive radio frequency signal while the unmanned aerial vehicle is in aerial flight; store the incoming information in a storage system to form stored information; and control the laser communications system to transmit the stored information in the storage system in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water while the unmanned aerial vehicle is submerged in the body of water. 
     Clause B11: The communications system according to clause B10 further comprising: a first physical connector in the unmanned aerial vehicle; wherein the controller is configured to control the storage system to transmit the stored information when the first physical connector is connected to a second physical connector in the underwater platform. 
     Clause B12: The communications system according to clause B10, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle comprises the first section having a dish shape and the second section having the dish shape, wherein the first section is moveably connected to the second section; wherein the radio frequency communications system is located in the first section and the laser communications system is located in the second section; and wherein the controller is configured to: control the laser communications system to transmit the incoming information in the transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in the body of water, wherein the incoming information is from the receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system; and control the radio frequency communications system to transmit outgoing information in a radio frequency signal, wherein the outgoing information is from a receive laser beam received by the laser communications system. 
     Thus, the illustrative embodiments provide a method, apparatus, and system for facilitating communications with an underwater platform. In one illustrative example, a communications system comprises an unmanned aerial vehicle, a radio frequency communications system, a laser communications system, and a controller. The unmanned aerial vehicle comprises a first section and a second section. The first section is moveably connected to the second section. The radio frequency communications system is connected to the first section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. 
     The radio frequency communications system includes a first parabolic antenna. The laser communications system is connected to the second section of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The laser communications system includes a second parabolic antenna. The controller is configured to control the laser communications system to transmit incoming information in a transmit laser beam to the underwater platform submerged in a body of water. The incoming information is from a receive radio frequency signal received by the radio frequency communications system. 
     The description of the different illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the form disclosed. The different illustrative examples describe components that perform actions or operations. In an illustrative embodiment, a component can be configured to perform the action or operation described. For example, the component can have a configuration or design for a structure that provides the component an ability to perform the action or operation that is described in the illustrative examples as being performed by the component. Further, to the extent that terms “includes”, “including”, “has”, “contains”, and variants thereof are used herein, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprises” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements. 
     Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrative embodiments may provide different features as compared to other desirable embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.