SHIPS: Scalable Heterogeneous Integration for Photon-entanglement Sources

This proposal focuses on advancing heterogeneous integration of AlGaAsOI materials with silicon photonics to enable high-performance quantum photonic integrated circuits (QPICs). The primary objective is to develop a scalable, foundry-compatible platform that leverages the strong optical nonlinearity of AlGaAsOI integrated on silicon photonics for high brightness and high entangled-photon pair generation rate, and adding nonlinear optical functions to the PDK for QPICs. Key innovations include wafer-scale bonding of AlGaAsOI micro-rings with silicon photonics and an advanced bonded selective regrowth process for monolithic integration of quantum dot pumps onto the AlGaAsOI material platform. Funding will support the development of epitaxy and material characterization, device design, simulations and modelling, layout and fabrication, and micro-ring resonator quality factor as well as on-chip entangled-photon generation measurements to establish a robust pathway toward a scalable platform. The proposed technology aligns with NASA’s long-term vision for quantum-enabled space communication, high-precision remote sensing, and scalable LiDAR systems by providing scalable, energy-efficient, low CSWaP quantum light sources. Target markets include government and commercial sectors focused on quantum photonic integration for secure communications & computing, autonomous navigation & LiDAR for aerospace and planetary exploration, and commercial quantum photonic processors & AI computing.