Low Noise Microchip Lasers for Photonic Applications

Military communications and electronic warfare systems require increased bandwidth capability to assert dominance across the electromagnetic spectrum while simultaneously reducing size, weight, and power. Electronic technology is increasingly challenged with threat frequencies exceeding 20 GHz as coaxial cables typically used for these applications have increased loss with increasing frequency and are subject to electromagnetic interference Photonic technology is suitable for frequencies above 100 GHz and provides comprehensive electromagnetic maneuver warfare solutions. One of the key components necessary to providing low noise figures is the development of compact low phase noise lasers. In this SBIR, we will focus on shot-noise-limited, narrow linewidth, diode-pumped, solid-state lasers as low noise photonic sources.