Acousto-optic modulators (AOMs) are finding exciting new roles beyond traditional laser communications: 1. Deep Space Lidar: NASA and ESA use AOMs in lidar systems for planetary terrain mapping, enabling autonomous rover navigation. 2. Quantum Communication: AOMs help encode quantum keys in satellite-based QKD (Quantum Key Distribution) by prec
While acousto-optic modulators (AOMs) are versatile for laser control, deploying them in space presents unique challenges: 1. Thermal Extremes: Spacecraft experience drastic temperature swings. AOM crystals must maintain stability without thermal expansion affecting optical alignment. 2. Radiation Hardness: Cosmic rays and solar radiation can d
Acousto-optic modulators (AOMs), also known as acousto-optic frequency shifters (AOFS), are devices that use sound waves to control laser light. In space applications, these components play a crucial role in communication, lidar systems, and scientific instrumentation. How It Works: An AOM uses a piezoelectric transducer to generate high-frequenc