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This IRAD will continue development of a spaceflight-compatible
optical frequency comb (OFC) system. OFCs use femtosecond pulsed
lasers to output a uniformly spaced optical spectrum, which can
down-convert high-frequency optical signals from optical atomic
clocks into usable RF timing signals. The project will develop space qualified
OFC technology and characterize OFC performance
requirements for multiple proposed missions, including space-based
VLBI (for imaging supermassive black holes) and as a proof-of-concept
test to suppress laser and clock noise for future gravitational
wave detectors. It will leverage GSFC's expertise in space-compatible
ultra-stable lasers (LISA heritage) and an SBIR collaboration with
Vescent Technologies.
Development of space-qualified OFC technology enabling:
exoplanet detection via precision radial velocity measurements;
improved performance of space-based gravitational wave
detectors (e.g., LISA); gravimetry instruments for planetary mass
balance (Earth, Mars); high-precision timing references for
space-based communications and navigation (e.g., cislunar);
VLBI for sensitive scientific instruments; advanced optical
communication systems supporting terabyte-per-second data
rates via wavelength-division multiplexing.
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This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.
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