Optical technologies for signal processing in satellite repeaters

The evolution of modern communications satellites from the older cable-in-the-sky concept toward more intelligent architectures, exploiting onboard processing (OBP) techniques involving various technologies to improve the system performance and flexibility, is addressed. The key components in advanced communications satellite repeaters compatible with integrated optical device implementation are presented. The relevant device technologies and fabrication techniques are examined, and integrated optical circuit configurations that can be applied to OBP are described with reference to recent experimental data. Particular attention is given to optical beamforming networks. Areas for further research and development are suggested.<>