Super Resolution Long Delay Variable Optical Delay Line for RF Radar

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project deals with a unique variable optical delay line technology applicable to MDA TMD and NMD radar program activities such as the PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system, Navy Area Wide AEGIS/Standard Missile System, and the Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) System. This delay line technology can simultaneously provide both high resolution time delay and long time delays for the RF signals in the microwave and millimeter-wave bands. It is assembled from compact optical devices and fiber-optics, leading to a low loss high performance and scalable module for radar. The module features high resolution sub-picosecond variable delays with long delays only limited by fiber length and inherent loss. This delay line can be used for applications such as photonic beamforming for microwave radars and for conducting radar testing. Phase I research will concentrate on the basic proposed module and its proof of concept experimental demonstration. Groundwork will be laid to indicate technical concept feasibility that will lead to a Phase II plan for prototyping and development.