Research Progress and Development Trend of Fast Steering Mirror for Satellite Laser Communication

As a core component of the acquisition tracking and pointing (ATP) system, the fast steering mirror (FSM) is widely used in satellite laser communication, laser weapons, adaptive optics imaging, high-precision laser aiming, and other applications because of its fast response, high accuracy, and high resolution. This paper presents the working principles of the FSM and ATP system. Various FSM devices of global research institutions are reviewed based on several parameters, such as driving mode, FSM figure, working bandwidth, range of scan angle, control precision, volume, weight, power consumption, and applications in satellite laser communication. Three main classes of FSMs [the voice coil motor, piezoelectric ceramics, and micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS)] are elaborated. The operating mode and performance difference of FSMs with different driving structures are described, and the critical parameters for applying FSM in the ATP system are analyzed. The key technologies of FSM in laser communication are prospected. It is concluded that high precision, digitalization, and miniaturization are the future trends of FSM.