2-Dimensional Phase Controlled Coherent VCSEL Arrays for Military Applications

Aerius Photonics and the University of Illinois propose to develop a large two-dimensional coherently coupled Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) array that will enable phase controlled operation, providing a building block for electronic steering of optical beam outputs with no mechanical parts. In Phase I, the program team will design the array including epitaxial layers, VCSEL array structure and assembly/hybridization approach. In addition, Phase I tasks will include the fabrication and test of a small prototype for risk reduction purposes. Also in Phase I, the program team will define the commercialization plan to guide action in Phase II and Phase III of the program. In Phase II, the team will develop and build a larger array to demonstrate the beam steering capability at higher output power in a deployable configuration. The resulting products will be integrated into systems that benefit the mission of DoD in a range of areas and that will be transitioned into manufacturing in Phase III.