Optical & RF Combined Link Experiment (ORCLE)
Abstract
(U) The Optical & RF Combined Link Experiment (ORCLE) program seeks to develop combined radio frequency (RF) and free space optical (FSO) communications as well as networking technologies that exploit the benefits of complementary path diversity. This effort encompasses the extension of research into the FSO/RF Internet Protocol-based Gateway Network system for tactical reach-back applications called the Optical RF Communications Adjunct (ORCA). Using optical and RF communication techniques, ORCLE will demonstrate improved battlespace communications using a hybrid RF and FSO link in air-to-air-to-ground environments. The central challenge is to enable optical communications bandwidth without giving up RF reliability regardless of the weather. ORCLE will develop RF and FSO propagation channel analysis, coding techniques and modeling to include weather, atmospherics and aero-optics to provide the joint force commander assured high-data rate communications. The technical objective is to prototype and flight demonstrate hybrid FSO/RF air-to-air-to-ground links that combine the best attributes of both technologies and simulate hybrid network performance. The ORCLE technology is planned for transition to the Special Operations Forces and the Air Force in FY 2011.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2011
- Source ID
- edc7da7316b3d7d496da17f925c46a86