Novel Integrated Photonics Frequency Comb Phenomena

Abstract

Optical frequency combs consisting of a large number of precisely spaced optical frequencies have potential applications ranging from precision time keeping to optical communications and photonics-based processing of radio-frequency signals. Although optical frequency combs were originally generated from short pulse laser systems, alternative techniques for comb generation have emerged. For example, substantial progress in generation of coherent, high repetition rate optical frequency combs from integrated photonic microresonators has occurred over the last several years. Rapid progress in other integrated photonics technologies is also occurring. Such integrated photonics approaches offer improved potential to move comb technologies out of the laboratory. This proposal explores ideas that would enhance the generation of combs from integrated photonic structures and open up new applications area for combs and other integrated photonics. One research thrust aims at obtaining reliable comb generation with both high power conversion efficiency and at repetition rates suitable for electronic readout, a combination not previously demonstrated. A second research direction investigates the possibility of using an array of combs to implement rapid scanning of short pulse beams in space, which could provide a new approach to lidar imaging. A final research topic investigates the possibility of manipulating pulsed optical signals in modulated integrated photonic microresonators to realize new signal processing capabilities.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Aug 12, 2021
Source ID
FA95502010283

Entities

People

  • Andrew M. Weiner

Organizations

  • Air Force Office of Scientific Research
  • Purdue University
  • United States Air Force

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Integrated Circuit Design and Technology.
  • Optical Physics and Photonics.

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics
  • Space