Integrated Fourier Transform Spectrometer

A MEMS enabled photonic integrated circuit is proposed, to implement a high resolution Fourier Transform Spectrometer. The targeted NASA application is EPRV (extreme precision radial velocity), a technique used to measure the masses of temperate planets orbiting sun-like stars that calls for a spectrometer with R~100,000 in the visible to NIR spectrum (400-900nm). A single chip measuring occupying less than 170 square millimeters of area can implement this function, minimizing the need for complex control systems that are required for stabilizing larger bulk realizations. In a FTS, two replicas of an input lightwave signal are subjected to independently controlled time delays and recombined to produce a so-called interferogram. By forming the interferogram over a suitably wide range of time delays, an autocorrelation representation of the signal is formed which can then be digitally Fourier Transform to yield the desired spectrum. The iFTS uses a novel set of coarse and fine time delay adjustments with a digital architecture wherein MEMS actuation provides 17 bits of time delay control. In this phase 1 effort, the complete system will be analyzed to produce reachable system performance specifications for a later Phase 2 consideration. Moreover, an early effort involving the deposition and characterization of key layer materials for optical waveguide construction will be performed, using Obsidian Sensors' proprietary Integrated MEMS on Glass manufacturing process. The goal will be to explore the possibility of adding an optical waveguide module to produce a low cost photonic integrated circuit fabrication technique that includes MEMS and thin film transistors. PDK (process design kit) from commercial photonic waveguide foundries will also be considered with recommendations compiled for which direction to follow for a later Phase 2 implementation.

EPRV instruments that are being contemplated for ground based telescopes is the immediate outlet for the iFTS technology. The market for such scientific instruments with performance goals that far outstrip any defense or commercial application is not large but significant for a small company like Obsidian Sensors. Because we are targeting a production technology that promises to be lower cost per unit area of device, higher volume applications stand to benefit from a successful iFTS development.

The successful demonstration of iFTS for the EPRV application can directly impact much larger volume applications across the medical and even consumer markets where less challenging spectroscopy performed in real time in the molecular fingerprint regions of the infrared can be used for diagnosis and analysis. COVID-19 is a very recent and important application example.

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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