Optical communication and navigation for spacecraft docking using modulating retroreflectors

An optical communications link is used to transmit important navigation and range information between two spacecraft platforms to aid in the spacecraft docking process. This experiment uses NRL's multiple quantum well modulating retroreflector (MRR) array as the light payload optical communications transmitter on the target spacecraft. Spacecraft navigation information is determined by using the MRR array to impose five distinct modulation frequencies on the optical transmit beam, and analyzing the received signal on the pursuer spacecraft to extract target attitude and range information. Design, architecture, and status of the experiment at NRL are discussed.