Description
The Ferdinand-Braun-Institute has been developing micro-integrated, high-power, narrow-linewidth semiconductor laser sources for precision spectroscopy applications for more than ten years. Starting with hybrid-integrated diode laser chips and micro-optics on a ceramic platform, we successfully enabled Bose-Einstein condensation experiments in a drop tower [1][2]. As the next step we now develop, qualify, and deliver whole laser modules for applications on space-borne platforms including sounding rockets, the International Space Station and small satellites [3]. Here, we present two novel devices for operation in quantum technology applications: A hybrid micro-integrated laser module and a frequency reference module.
A robust design will enable the deployment of our latest micro-integrated diode laser modules in space applications. Specially developed control algorithms shall ensure enhanced functionality and user-friendliness. Temperature stabilization is achieved by the calculation of an effective micro-optical bench temperature through distributed temperature sensors. By that the optical resonator length and hence the optical emission frequency is stabilized. An intra-cavity pick-off will enable the generation of an error signal allowing to extend the laser’s mode-hop free tuning range beyond the limit given by the free spectral range of the laser resonator.
Especially tailored to meet the requirements of laser automation in quantum technology applications, a compact and robust frequency reference module is being developed. By an intermediary stabilization of the laser to the well-designed frequency reference, laser locking to a desired atomic transition is accelerated. A sophisticated thermal stabilization concept shall ensure a frequency accuracy of 50 MHz and a tuning range of more than 20 GHz. The reference module is designed to be operated in three different modes: (i) Stabilization of a laser to the frequency reference for achieving an accelerated lock-acquisition, (ii) Operation of the frequency reference as a wavemeter and measuring the emission frequency of a free-running laser and (iii) recalibration of the frequency reference with a reference laser. In its first application the frequency reference is intended to complement the laser module by facilitating accurate control of the laser frequency in an atom interferometer application with ultra-cold potassium atoms.
References
[1] Max Schiemangk et al., Appl. Opt. 54, 5332-5338 (2015)
[2] Julia Pahl et al., Appl. Opt. 58, 5456-5464 (2019)
[3] Christian Kürbis et al., Appl. Opt. 59, 253-262 (2020)
| Presenter name | Janpeter Hirsch |
|---|---|
| How will you attend ICAP-27? | I am planning on in-person attendance |
