Group to Develop Platform for Free-Space Communications

A group of UK companies and universities will develop a next-generation optical platform for free-space optical communications. The proj-ect, known as Alfonso -- Adaptive Long-Wave Free-Space Optical Network Solutions -- and valued at more than £720,000, will combine the mid-IR, optically pumped, vertical external-cavity surface-emitting laser technology of the Institute of Photonics, University of Strathclyde, in Glasgow with the expertise in adaptive optics at the University of Durham. Industrial partners Sira, Cablefree Solutions Ltd., Ferranti Photonics Ltd. and Starpoint Adaptive Optics Ltd. will offer support in development engineering and commercialization.

The program will address the platform enhancements needed to overcome the "last mile" broadband connectivity gap to meet the demands of future telecommunications systems. Sponsored by the Smart Optics Faraday Partnership, Alfonso is supported with a £365,500 grant from the UK's Department of Trade and Industry.