Neodymium-doped Alumina (Nd:Al2O3): A New Solid-State Laser Material for Tunable, High Power, Short Pulsed Laser Applications

Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)

Description

The primary research objective of this CIF award is to build the first laser cavity based on the novel gain medium, Neodymium-doped Alumina (Nd:Al2O3) and demonstrate a tunable wavelength output. First, we will obtain several samples of Nd:AL2O3. Upon the successful polishing and coating of the samples, we will then develop the first laser cavity based on Nd:Al2O3 and demonstrate wavelength tunability (in the 1030-1080 nm range). After the fundamental characteristics of the laser are observed, we will design an ultrashort pulse laser system (in the picosecond range) based on Nd:AL2O3 which will have direct applications in planetary exploration payloads during NASA's Moon to Mars Era.

Benefits

We will develop and fully characterize the world's first laser based on a novel gain medium, Neodymium-doped Alumina (Nd:Al2O3). Once properly developed, this new material would dramatically simplify the complex packaging of current ultrashort pulse laser systems, enabling new space flight applications in the fields of planetary mass spectrometry, laser ranging and optical communications.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Lasers
Program	Center Innovation Fund: GSFC CIF (GSFC CIF)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Matthew W Mullin — matthew.w.mullin@nasa.gov

How to get involved

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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