Optical control of phased array antennas: a European perspective

A review is presented of current European work on optical feeds, ranging from systems demonstrator work on optical signal distribution networks to research studies on phased array beam formers using coherent optical techniques. The attractions of optical signal feeds for phases array antennas are becoming accepted, and it is possible to control groups of 10-200 elements from a single laser source. In Europe early application to space-based phased arrays is expected. However, the advantages of reduced mass and improved electromagnetic compatibility are also important in naval applications. Much development work on optical sources and detectors remains to be done to improve the efficiency of the optical-electrical interface. Optical beam forming is a topic of considerable current research interest, and both coherent and noncoherent techniques are likely to find system applications. In the longer term direct optical control of microwave devices would permit further reductions in array complexity provided the problems of device design to give efficient optical coupling can be overcome.<>