Application research of achromatic double-prism scanner for free space laser communication

The design and analysis of achromatic double-prism scanners for free space laser communication is presented. Double prism canner consists of two independently rotating prisms; the two prisms are parallel and adjacent to each other. Compared with conventional two-axis optical electro-gimbals, the double –prism system has the advantages of high accuracy, compactness and good dynamic performance. But the wavelength of beacon and communication laser is different; the achromatic aberration caused by double prisms will result in alignment error between beacon link and communication link. Design results for the scanner, when used in 800nm and 1550nm demonstrated total fields of view 13 degrees with almost no aberration were presented. This will provide a new lightweight canner for free space laser communication.