Spin wave-based neuromorphic coprocessor for advanced AI applications

The Space Technology Mission Directorate highlights the need for high performance radiation-hardened artificial intelligence (AI) coprocessors able to support advanced avionics and instrumentation necessary for decision making, scientific data processing, and navigation in future space missions. When realized on traditional von Neumann architectures, deep neural network models underlying the most advanced artificial intelligence are constrained by high energy consumption and long processing times. Investigations of electron spin as a mechanism for computation point toward the potential for new low-energy processing technologies mediated by spin waves. An all optical approach constitutes the fastest mechanism for communicating with spin wave systems via light-matter interaction. Despite its promise, a fully optical spin wave device has not yet been realized in part due to limitations in current optical control techniques. Here, we propose the development of an all optical spin wave coprocessor device harnessing vortex beams to reach beyond current optical capabilities and demonstrate the feasibility of spin wave space technologies. Studying angular momentum transfer in thin film magnetic semiconductor CrSBr supports new opportunities for incorporating radiation hardened materials in coprocessor design and is key to a novel scientific plan for isolating the most important mechanisms involved in optical excitation of spin waves. Toward these ends, we will apply ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopic methods to induce and study magnetic dynamics with both temporal and spatial resolution.

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