Optical communication systems and methods using coherently combined optical beams are disclosed. A representative system includes a first mirror having a first actuator for adjusting a position of the first mirror in a path of a first optical beam and a first optical detector for receiving light reflected from the first mirror. The system also includes a second mirror having a second actuator for adjusting a position of the second mirror in a path of a second optical beam and a second optical detector for receiving light reflected from the second mirror. The system includes an interferometer for measuring an interference between the first and second optical beams and a third optical detector for receiving light from the second interfered optical beam. Intensity of the first interfered optical beam is increased by the interference, and intensity of the second interfered optical beam is decreased by the interference.