Progress in free space optical communication technology based on cat-eye modulating retro-reflector

The free space optical communication technology based on a cat-eye modulating retro-reflector has great advantages as compared to the classical free space optical communication technology. In this paper,the principle of free space optical communication technology based on modulating retro-reflector is described and its main construction is introduced. Then,the research status of the technology in modulator characteristics,cat-eye optical systems and technology used in foreign countries is reviewed,and the technology development in China is introduced briefly. The key points of the technology are analyzed. Finally,the application trends and developing prospects are viewed.