Project Overview
Free Space Communications with Rotating Optical Beams
Department(s)
Physics and Astronomy
Abstract
The present form of encoding of information in light beams is reaching a limit given the communication channels that are available. The solution is to increase the bandwidth of the light. We have begun investigating preparing beams of light in states of "spatially-variable polarization." In doing so we are able to encode information on the polarization structure of the light. By varying the pattern we are able to rotate the pattern of the light. The objective is to encode information in the rotation of the pattern. We have successfully demonstrated this. Now we need to implement it and study how resilient it is to atmospheric turbulence. The project will entail hands-on experience with optical hardware involved in generating the novel type of optical beams. This also entails prohramming an electro-optical device used in creating the structured light beams. We hope to test this type of communication over distances longer than the lab space. The outcomes will be reported at conferences and published in professional journals.
Student Qualifications
At least one year of physics.
Number of Student Researchers
1 student
Project Length
8 weeks
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