The design of a flexible RF generator for driving Acousto-Optical devices in space applications

Abstract

Acousto-Optical (AO) devices are not only used for filtering purposes in spectral imaging, but also in optical communications and spatial tracking systems. Some AO devices with space applications are AO Tunable Filters (AOTFs), Modulators (AOMs), Deflectors (AODs) and Frequency Shifters (AOFSs). Though these device’s applications differ, they are all controlled with Radio-Frequency (RF) signals. These signals are converted by a transducer into an acoustic wave, which propagates inside the AO device. The interaction between the incoming light and the acoustic waves inside the birefringent AO material creates multiple output beams. This interaction can result in filtering, modulation, deflection or frequency shifting, depending on the AO device in question. This research focuses on the design of a flexible, uniform RF generator, applicable to all AO devices in the space applications domain. The RF output maximizes the performance of the AO device, while the use of components available in space qualified grades eases integration with future space missions. Its design is a key step towards a miniaturized, space qualified, general-purpose RF generator. This research presents schematics, design and preliminary component test results.