University of Ottawa

Purpose

Optiwave provides a complete suite of photonic design tools to >1000 hightechnology businesses and universities in >80 countries. Key to Optiwave penetrating the free-space optical (FSO) market is validation of new models across the software suite. Key to OSC members is accurately modeling highdata-rate transmission using various modulation schemes over free space optical channels between ground and satellite, high-altitude platform systems (HAPS), or ground, over all possible weather conditions. This project works towards delivering ground-based power to HAPS or satellites, to increase power budgets for high-data-rates and capacities, moving heavy equipment to the ground. This will enable always-on performance with reliable power delivery, free of the day-night cycle or limits of installed battery capacity. Main activities are: (1) AI-enhanced photonic power converter design & characterization (2) System modeling & validation for FSO data & power transmission (3) Free space optical data+power beaming demonstration using NRC’s ARTEMIS optical ground station