Automatic Optical Power Control for Satellite Communication System in Low-Photon Mode

Optical satellite communication uses laser radiation to transmit information instead of the classical radio frequency range. Laser communication is characterized by better performance due to higher carrier frequency and less power consumption [1, 2]. PIN, avalanche, and superconducting single-photon detectors (SSPD) can be used to receive optical signals. In this paper, we describe an automatic optical power control (AOPC) system that adjusts the input optical signal to ensure it remains within the operational range of the SSPD during satellite laser communications.