McMaster University

Purpose

Atmospheric fluctuations severely limit the bandwidth of a satellite-to-ground optical communications channel. The project team proposes to use methods similar to those used in astronomy to mitigate atmospheric fluctuations and improve image fidelity. At present, researchers are exploring a technical solution via an optical system analogous to adaptive optics, optimized for satellite-based optical communications. This project will support the larger goal, led by NRC, of developing a high bandwidth optical communications system to serve rural and remote communities in Canada.