InP-based modulator array antennas at 1.06 /spl mu/m

An increasing number of future space projects will make use of optical technologies for a wide range of applications. Stringent requirements on size, weight and reliability create a need for waveguide based photonic integrated circuits (PICs). We are currently studying the feasibility of InGaAsP/InP technology for the realization of a PIC for phase control of optical radiation at 1.06 /spl mu/m. This PIC is to be integrated in an optical phased array telescope system for intersatellite communication. As a first step towards the realization of such a PIC, we have realized a phase modulator showing good loss and modulation characteristics at the desired wavelength. We have also fabricated tapered waveguides, which will be used to improve the coupling efficiency of the fibre-chip coupling.