Fiber-optic frequency combs developed by NIST are enabling practical applications beyond the lab
– Applications include laser ranging, molecular spectroscopy, optical timing, and microwave generation
– Combs must be low-cost, compact, and maintain phase stability in real-world conditions
– NIST has developed robust fiber combs that operate under 1g vibrations
– Technology transferred to aerospace industry and other labs through workshops and CRADAs
– Hybrid design combining fiber and silicon-nitride waveguide developed for low-power combs
The article discusses NIST’s development of practical, robust fiber-optic frequency combs for real-world applications. These combs, based on polarization-maintaining erbium fiber, can operate under 1g vibrations and have been successfully transferred to the aerospace industry and other labs. A hybrid design combining fiber and silicon-nitride waveguides has also been developed for low-power operation. The combs enable applications like laser ranging, molecular spectroscopy, optical timing, and microwave generation, requiring low-cost, compact, and phase-stable performance.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/programs-projects/fiber-optic-frequency-comb-development
Keywords: Frequency combs, Fiber-optic technology, Optical metrology, Precision spectroscopy, Phase stability
