Low-Phase-Noise Yb, Er:Glass 1535 nm CW Laser Transmitter For Radio Frequency (RF) Photonics

We propose to refine and extend the development of a Yb,Er:Glass 1535 nm diode-pumped single-longitudinal and transverse mode ultra-narrowband miniature solid-state laser with low intensity and phase noise, and output powers > 400 mW, in a custom package with a volume of < 23 cm3. The laser will be coupled to a single-mode polarization maintaining optical fiber through a hermetic seal. The laser will achieve shot-noise-limited performance from 1-100 Ghz, and a Lorentzian bandwidth of < 2 kHz. We have already completed the design of Yb,Er:Glass lasers with outputs of > 100 mW from a single-mode polarization-maintaining fiber. During the proposed Phase II program, we will further experimentally scale the fiber-coupled output power to 400 mW, by utilizing heatsinking advances and by increasing our materials joining technology capabilities. Laser devices will be demonstrated using a new custom laser package. Our lasers will meet the TR 4 level by the end of the program. In addition to further extending our laser technology, we will demonstrate complete integrated compact laser packages that incorporate our Yb,Er:Glass lasers with single-mode polarization-maintaining output fibers, and a laser control board for providing laser diode current and TEC control.