Fast, Narrow Linewidth Near Infrared (NIR) / Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) Scanner

Rapid tuning of narrowband sources is inherently limited by the number of roundtrips required in the high-Q cavity, which is required for generation of a narrow lasing linewidth. We propose to break the cavity tuning/linewidth barrier presented by conventional reconfiguration of the physical cavity itself. In our proposed configuration, the linewidth, scanning speed, and tuning range are decoupled in a practical and realizable design using technology block similar to those that have been previously demonstrated. In this program, we will perform in-depth computational modeling, based on proven theoretical frameworks, that will be quantitatively validated and benchmarked by experiments in a state-of-the-art research facility. Successful completion of this program will result in calculation of the ultimate performance limitations of the proposed design, derivation of the engineering rules governing practical NIR/SWIR operation, and a baseline design for a Phase II program.