Free-Space Optics (FSO) for optical communication request new compact low-power high-stroke high-bandwidth Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM). To address this need, CEDRAT TECHNOLOGIES (CTEC) has developed a Magnetically-actuated Fast Steering Mirror called M-FSM, taking heritage of its MICA™ actuators. This FSM offers Rx Ry strokes larger than +/- 2° with a 250Hz bandwidth when tilting a 31mm mirror diameter. Requested power is minimized leading to low heating.Vibration tests have been performed to define first limits and conditions for the M-FSM to bear external vibrations. Large bandwidth closed loop control is achieved.
Low-power high-stroke high-bandwidth Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM) are demanded for Free-Space Optical communication (FSO) in future LEO constellations inter-satellite links as well as in Deep Space Optical Communications (DSOC). For 20 years, CTEC has provided piezoelectrically-actuated Fast or Fine Steering Mirrors (FSM) for space missions and optronics. In 2020, CTEC has delivered the Flight Models of the FSM required for PSYCHE DSOC mission of NASA JPL. These FSM named PAM30 are Tip-tilt mechanisms based on 4 APA®. They offer a large bandwidth (> 2kHz) and fine resolution but angular strokes are limited to +/-2.8mrad. As such small strokes are constraining for optical and control design for FSO optical terminals, CTEC has developed a new FSM based on magnetic actuation called M-FSM62. This targets larger tilt stroke, larger than +/-2 mechanical degrees (+/-35mrad), low power, low heating and high bandwidth: 200Hz full stroke and 1kHz at low level. At first a Breadboard Model (BBM) was realised using a 10mm diameter glass mirror. Then an Engineering Model (EM) has been developed. It steers a SiC mirror with a 31 mm diameter using a better mirror support, keeping the same magnetic actuation design. The paper will review the technology of the M-FSM62 as well as its performances.
Feel free to contact us if you want to know more about the technology of our M-FSM62 as well as its performances.
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