NIST researchers have developed a fast and inexpensive method to create compact frequency combs, which are precision tools used in fields like astronomy, medical diagnostics, and atomic clocks. The new technique uses laser machining to shape a small disk from a quartz rod in just one minute, compared to traditional methods that can take hours or even weeks. This approach is much simpler and cheaper, with a system costing around $10,000, versus $1 million to $10 million for conventional methods that require cleanroom environments.
The frequency comb is created by confining light inside the shaped disk, which enhances light intensity and allows the light to be transformed into a set of evenly spaced colors, or “teeth,” that act like a ruler for measuring light. These combs can be tuned for different applications, such as calibrating telescopes. NIST plans to apply for a patent on the technique and continue improving the performance of these combs for use in other compact devices like optical frequency standards. The research is supported by agencies like DARPA and NASA.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2013/07/nist-shows-how-make-compact-frequency-comb-minutes
Keywords: frequency comb, optical cavity, resonator
