Long range analog RF free space optical communication link in a maritime environment

The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) of Australia has performed long distance experiments with analog modulated free space optical communication links across the Chesapeake Bay. Results will be presented on estimating the probability density functions of the RF parameters of gain, noise factor, and linearity after propagating an RF modulated, 1550nm laser beam over a 32km distance (folded round-trip across Chesapeake Bay). In addition, results from the transmission of video using analog FM modulation of a 1550nm laser beam over the link will be presented.