A novel chip-scale seed source at 1645nm for methane LIDARs

In this program, Freedom Photonics will develop a photonic integrated circuit to serve as a miniature seed source for methane LIDAR applications, in collaboration with NASA Langley Research Center. This low-SWaP technology, based on Freedom Photonics’ 1650 nm tunable laser platform, will facilitate the widespread deployment of gas-sensing LIDAR aboard small satellites and UAVs.

This program was inspired by an existing need within NASA (LaRC) for new, more precise and powerful remote sensing instrument implementations. The PIC is also applicable to Freedom Photonics’ PIC platforms at other wavelengths, so it is relevant for LIDAR sensing of water vapor or other atmospheric gases.

Methane and other gas detection, optical fiber sensing, optical communications, test and measurement instrumentation.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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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