iMiLQ

Compact external micro resonator stabilized light sources for Quantum Metrology

(iMiLQ) Juli, 2015

In this project a compact narrow-linewidth laser module, based on optical feedback by an external resonator, will be developed. This approach delivers the highest spectral stability of all diode laser based systems.The project is based on specific laser systems which have already macroscopically been created und used in the field of high resolution spectroscopy by one of the applicants.

Due to the complexity of the mechanical structure, the resulting higher sensitivity with interferences from outside and the high manufacturing and operating costs, the laser concept was not yet brought into the market. In this laser concept, which is defined as an extended cavity setup, a micro-disk-resonator is used instead of backside mirrors. This extern resonator will effectively increase the storage time of the optical field in the laser resonator. A very long extended cavity setup will be emulated and the linewidth of the laser system will be reduced. Compared to common extended cavity diode lasers the sensitivity for current noise of the diode laser frequency can be reduced by one to two orders of magnitude.

The long-term goal of the applicants is the commercialization of these laser systems. Only a combination of micro resonators with monolithic integrated waveguide (MIW) and hybrid micro integrated technology can ensure a system design that provides compact and robust qualities and which hardware can be manufactured cost-efficiently for industrial use, for this reason the commercialization couldn’t have been realized so far. Based on the work of AdMiRe the next aim of this research project contains the development of the SiO2/Si technology to produce and develop the MIW, which waveguide based passive optical component will replace optical resonators of macroscopic laser designs.

Second aim of the research project includes the technical implementation of a hybrid micro-integrated setup mounted in a butterfly type housing, which is based on the hybrid integration technology developed by FBH and BFB in other projects. This Project was co-financed by the european fund for regional development. (EFRE)