An authentication system authenticates remotely generated optical control signals. A remote optical emitter transmits an optical control signal from a remote location. A remote authentication device collocated with the remote optical emitter receives an authentication challenge signal and transmits a compatible authentication response signal. A control optical signal processor positioned at a first location receives the optical control signal from the remote optical emitter and generates a control output signal in response to detection of a valid optical control signal. An authentication device is coupled by a real time data communications link with the optical signal processor and with the remote optical emitter. The control authentication device receives the control output signal from the optical processor, transmits the authentication challenge signal to the remote authentication device in response to receipt of the control output signal and generates an authenticated control output signal in response to receipt of a valid authentication response signal from the remote authentication device.