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Completed TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Planar Waveguides (PWGs) are extremely versatile and have demonstrated excellent performance but are difficult to manufacture. We will demonstrate a new, simpler, faster process that will also improve functionality and performance.
Demonstrate efficacy of a novel growth technique for planar waveguides (PWG) Enable PWG laser technology with improved performance, efficiency and manufacturability. Manufacture a planar waveguide more like a fiber, instead of building it piece-by-piece. Build an optimized PWG amplifier prototype using this technique Evaluate its performance Demonstrate potential of new technique Collaborators: NP Photonics, Inc.
EV-3, ASCENDS, LIST, Laser Communications, 3-D WIND, other mapping and spectroscopic missions like trace-gas (methane, water vapor, etc.) detection for planetary and Earth exploration
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