Ultra Low Noise 1.06 Micron Laser Oscillator, Phase I

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) demand state-of-the-art ultra-stable and low noise coherent lasers. This is a proposal to develop a space qualified high power, single mode, low noise and narrow linewidth fiber laser based on a "virtual ring" laser cavity at the 1.06 micron spectral band. This novel laser architecture enables traveling-wave oscillation in a compact, linear and all-fiber cavity. This leads to unprecedented low noise and stable laser oscillator. The all fiber device also offers a highly reliable, compact and power conserving solution. We have already demonstrated virtual ring oscillators at the 1.55 micron band that rival the state of the ring laser architecture. In this research we will develop a 1.06 micron laser that can meet or exceed the LISA experiment required laser specifications.

Inter-satellite coherent communications systems are contemplated for DoD and commercial applications. These systems require high power coherent laser transmitter and a low power source for a local oscillator probably at the 1.06 micron band. These systems can use essentially the same base laser technology developed for the space qualified LISA experiment. Low noise space qualified coherent lasers can also find use in other NASA space missions among them: inter-satellite and deep space communications and high resolution coherent Lidar for the Mars Lander mission. In addition, this technology can also be used for ultra high-resolution air-borne LIDAR systems for terrestrial applications. These system may not require the ultra high stability of the LISA experiment but the development of the base-line technology for a common platform can lead to NASA cost savings.

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.