Nonlinear Optical Converters for Next-Generation Optical Clocks (NOCNOC) (NOCNOC)

We propose to develop Nonlinear Optical Converters for Next-Generation Optical Clocks (NOCNOC). The NOCNOC project will address a critical NASA need for ultra-stable timekeeping in space-based environments by significantly reducing the size, weight, power-consumption, and cost (SWaP-C) of the laser subsystems that currently restrict optical-based clock technologies to the laboratory environment. Our key innovation is the development of a photonic-integrated circuit platform for harmonic frequency conversion to visible and near-ultraviolet wavelengths with record efficiency. While a major strength of the proposed platform is its general applicability to many key quantum systems, NOCNOC will specifically target integration with a Sr+ ion clock targeted for spacecraft use. Phase 1 funding will support subsystem design and modeling, while also de-risking experimental challenges related to thin-film preparation. Beyond NASA, commercial markets for this technology include quantum information processing, secure communications, remote sensing, and spectroscopy.

Ultra-efficient wavelength conversion to the visible and near-ultraviolet spectral bands is critical for next-generation instruments like clocks, spectrometers, and telescopes that operate in the space environment. Conventional solutions based on bulk or fiber optics do not meet the requirements for long-term operation, power consumption, or ruggedization for use in spacecraft. Wavelength conversion modules developed in this program will lead to significant size, weight, and power reductions of the atomically referenced lasers used in these instruments while also validating performance across a broad environmental range including temperature, shock/vibration, and radiation. Scalable production of nanophotonic wavelength conversion modules has the potential for disruptive impact in areas such as quantum computing, precision navigation and timing, remote sensing, and secure communications. Successful completion of this program will lead to the first commercially produced nanophotonic second-harmonic conversion modules. A key advantage of our approach is the straightforward adaptation of nanophotonic waveguide design to target arbitrary wavelengths across the near-ultraviolet and the visible through lithographic patterning alone. The intrinsic scalability of our wafer-scale production methods and robust packaging methods will lead to lower parts cost and simplified customization, increasing the addressable market.

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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.