Palm-Top, High Power, Sub-Nanosecond Laser Source for Multi-Platform Spectroscopy and Laser-Based Remote Sensing

We are developing a new diode pumped architecture incorporating recent advances in high-brightness laser diodes, high speed electro-optics, and a new laser crystal birefringent design. This miniature solid state laser transmitter will also be assembled with in-house 3D printed opto-mechanics, producing peak powers only achieved with systems with >2X the components and size, and capable of rapid adaptation to several active remote sensing and planetary exploration sciences. The final breadboard will be readily adaptable to flight-ready optic mechanics and TRL advancement efforts with minimal hardware changes.

This work will

1. prove we can produce a new class of miniature sub-ns, mJ-class laser source using…
2. advanced in-house rapid manufacturing techniques with new materials and resins, and
3. demonstrate a reliable and viable path to TRL6 with low CTE, a high cavity alignment stiffness, reduced mass, and greatly reduced cost and schedule.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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