Integrated Photonic Filters for RF Signal Processing

In this Project, OEwaves Inc. and Georgia Tech team propose to research and develop a unique RF photonic receiver front-end enabling microwave signal processing at a heterogeneously integrated photonic platform. In particular, we propose to develop a new technology for photonic microwave filters based on the new advances in Si-based integrated photonics. We will exploit the expertise of the team members who have made extensive contributions to silicon (Si) and silicon nitride (SiN) integrated photonic structures (Georgia Tech) and the design and development of analog photonic systems (OEwaves Inc.).

These photonic integrated circuits permit size, weight, power and cost reductions for spacecraft microprocessors, communication buses, processor buses, advanced data processing, free space communications and integrated optic science instrument optical systems, subsystems and components. Allowing NASA to respond to the steady increase in data rates, with signal coding and modulation for more efficient use of the RF spectrum establishing reliable radio links across thousands of miles of space.

Various military airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as government software defined and cognitive radio applications had demonstrated great need for such a tunable microwave-photonic filter. Customers include the federal government (DoD, NSA, etc.), government/defense contractors (Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, L-3, Northrop Grumman, UTC Aerospace, etc.), and government communication radio developers (Motorola Solutions, Harris, National Instruments, etc.).

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — 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.

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.