Fieldable Midwave Infrared Sum Frequency LADAR Sensor

In response to the U.S. Navy need for highly efficient MWIR detection for IR LADAR missile seeker applications, Luminit proposes to develop a novel fieldable Midwave Infrared Sum Frequency (MIRSF) LADAR sensor. This sensor is based on highly efficient quasi-phase-matched frequency up-conversion in periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) nonlinear optical crystal, and a high diffraction efficiency narrowband Bragg grating that significantly reduces detection noise. The MIRSF sensor will be fabricated of off-the-shelf, low-cost, and compact components, including a NIR laser diode pump source, a PPLN, and a high-speed, high-efficiency silicon detector. The MIRSF sensor will be able to detect continuous wave and short pulse (~10 ns) MWIR waves with high efficiency and high sensitivity, without the need for cryogenic cooling. In Phase I, Luminit will develop a proof-of-concept MIRSF LADAR sensor and a high diffraction efficiency narrowband holographic Bragg grating, and demonstrate the feasibility of detecting 4 micron MWIR waves through quasi-phase-matched frequency up-conversion in PPLN with a 980 nm NIR laser diode pump source, a narrowband Bragg grating, and a silicon photodiode detector. Luminit will simulate the quasi-phase-matched frequency up-conversion in PPLN and characterize frequency up conversion detection efficiency and sensitivity.