OPEN-PATH/FREE-SPACE OPTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING REFLECTED OR BACKSCATTERED LIGHT

摘要

An open-path/free-space optical communication system (10) using reflected light has modulated optical or laser sources (12) and provides communication between the modulated source (12) and a detector (20) in an obstructed line-of-sight relationship. The system detects backscattered light impinging on a target (18) illuminated by the source of light (12). Barrier objects (26) positioned in a line-of-sight path between the source (12) and detector (20) are circumvented and a first device (14) that provides the modulation signal for the source controls a remote second device (22).