Analysis and correction of axis error in periscope-type optical communication terminals

► The models of the axis error in periscope-type optical communication terminals are built in this paper. These precise models describe the relationship between the axis error angles and pointing error angles for the first time. Therefore, the quantitative analysis can be used for the study on the effect of axis error on pointing performances in periscope-type optical communication terminals. ► The results of simulations have show that relationship between axis errors of azimuth and elevation is weak coupling. It is appropriate that only the elevation axis' error is considered in the model building of elevation axis' error angles, and vice versa. ► The pointing error angles can been corrected by these models, according to Eq. (16). And a correction of axis' errors has been performed. The results of test show that the model of axis' error in periscope-type can amend the pointing error. ► According to these models, some optical elements, whose position errors can cause pointing error angles, can be researched by quantitative analysis.