SBIR/STTR
Monolithic, Widely Tunable, THz Local Oscillator, Phase I
Project Introduction
This proposal describes development of a new type of quantum-cascade laser for use as a local oscillator at frequencies above 2 THz. The THz source described is a single chip solution that operates at room temperature. In addition, a mechanism for wide tuning (2-4.7 THz) is described that requires no moving parts.
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Anticipated Benefits
Potential NASA Commercial Applications: Compact and reliable local oscillators at frequencies above 2 THz are highly sought after for use on satellites such as SOFIA for studying the chemical composition of the interstellar medium. In addition, the same technology can be used to for atmospheric OH sensing, such as in the microwave limb sounder on the Aura satellite. In both cases our compact THz source would provide a significant size, weight, and power (SWaP) savings over current gas laser-based solutions.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
(JPL)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Pasadena, CA |
| MP Technologies, LLC | Supporting Organization | Industry | Evanston, IL |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
California
-
Illinois
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Project Manager:
Principal Investigator:
- Steven B Slivken
Project Duration
Start: May 2013
End: Nov 2013
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 2 |
| Current: | 2 |
| Estimated End: | 2 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
Technology Areas
Primary:
- TA 8 Science Instruments, Observatories, and Sensor Systems
- TA 8.1 Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors
- TA 8.1.2 Electronics