Is It Possible to Send Information Through a Laser Beam?

Long before the widespread adoption of the internet and digital technology, humans have sought innovative ways to communicate both locally and over vast distances. One such method, still in experimental stages but with a promising future, involves using laser beams for information transfer. This article explores the feasibility of sending information via laser, from its basics to more advanced applications.

Traditional Communication Methods

Of course, it is possible to send information through a laser beam. This method is formally known as optical fiber transmission, a fundamental technology that revolutionized the way we communicate globally. Historically, laser technology was also used during World War II for intership communication. Since the invention of the laser in 1960, we have leveraged light as an electromagnetic wave to communicate, mainly focusing on very low frequency (VLF) spectrum electromagnetic waves such as those used in radio communication, a practice that has been ongoing for over a century.

Basic Laser Communication Setup

Although fiber optic cable and established laser communication are sophisticated technologies, you can still experiment with a basic setup using a laser pointer. With minimal equipment, you can establish a communication link over short distances. Here’s how:

You and your neighbor each get a laser pointer. Print off a page of Morse code from the internet. Establish a line of sight, and each of you can shoot messages through the windows by translating letters into long and short laser pulses. This method is simple, fun, and offers a tangible connection to early communication technologies. For longer distances or to keep your messages secret, run a length of fiber optic cable between you. Point the lasers at the end of the fiber. The light will emerge from the other side, allowing for longer-range communication without any obstruction in the line of sight.

Advanced Laser Communication Technology

While the basic setup is feasible, advanced laser communication technology is a highly specialized field. NASA and the Department of Defense (DOD) are actively researching and developing this technology. One notable example is the Laser Communication Relay Demonstration (LCRD), which was recently launched to demonstrate laser communication with satellites. This technology offers significant advantages, including the near impossibility of jamming or intercepting the signals, making it highly secure.

Conclusion and Safety Precautions

While it is indeed possible to send information through a laser beam, it is essential to handle such devices with caution. Although laser pointers are generally safe, prolonged exposure to laser light can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the eyes. Always wear protective goggles when using lasers, and never look directly into the beam. Experimentation with laser communication can be both educational and fun, but safety should always be the top priority.

From the foundational methods used in early communication to the advanced technologies currently under development, laser communication represents a fascinating blend of science and history. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for laser communication to change our world remains vast and exciting.