News

Advances in adaptive optics

(2 February 2004)

The expertise in adaptive optics at the University is being used to develop a next-generation optical platform for free-space-optical (FSO) communications.

Current FSO systems are limited in range and reliability by weather effects, the most severe being fog. The expertise in adaptive optics at Durham will compensate for turbulence in the atmosphere that deflects and distorts the laser beam, so that a smaller, faster detector can be used than on non-adaptive systems, and consequently greater bandwith achieved.

Reported in Jane’s Defence Industry (01/02/04).