Compact Ultrasensitive Erbium-doped Waveguide Optical Gyros

In this program, we propose to develop a new photonic-integration platform that incorporates optical gain in resonant waveguide optical gyroscopes. This new photonic integration platform is based on our existing low-loss SiN/SiO2 PLC photonic integration technology and incorporates a doped Aluminum Oxide layer for gain. One key resonant waveguide optical gyro design constraint is the relationship between the waveguide length, which can increase the Sagnac effect, and waveguide loss, which decreases the gyro resolution. Freedom Photonics' low loss SiN PLC platform is clearly an adequate path forward for record-breaking Gyro performance. With introduction of gain into the PLC, new possibilities arise for enhanced sensitivity, simplified control electronics, and ultra compact and robust designs.

The primary focus of this program is to provide high-performance low c-SWaP optical gyroscopes to NASA for evaluation on the ISS. The program goal is the integration of these small and lightweight sensors into space subsystems, pico satellites, and space vehicles.

Other Government organizations: UAVs, UUVs and Unmanned Land Vehicles, Gimbal and turret stabilization, Emergency and firefighter vehicle navigation. Commercial applications: Vehicle navigation and safety devices (business and private vehicles), Surveying, Smart phones, and Computer games.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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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