Single-axis optical free-space communication

Abstract

A single-axis optical free-space communication device is described. The optical communication device may interact with entities that include or utilize elements such as retroreflectors. The optical communication device may be utilized for applications such as positioning, navigation, and/or timing (PNT), two-way communication, and/or other appropriate applications. The communication device may generate an optical output via a laser transmitter, optical fiber, and collimation lens. The optical communication device may receive optical inputs via the collimation lens, a photodetector, and receiver electronics. The optical communication device may utilize a single communication axis for transmission and reception by running an optical fiber transmission output through the center of an annular photodetector that receives reflected responses from the retroreflectors.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.