PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The project objectives are to design, fabricate, package, and integrate into a driver module for the first time, the Pilot Photonics comb source technology. A broad range of tests are considered within the scope of the project, including space environment testing, chip-level and module-level characterisation, and application level testing for communication applications, and swept-mode sensing applications.
Challenges
Key Challenges are:
- To design and fabricate an ultra-low cost, size, weight, and power photonic integrated optical comb source
- To develop a custom optical package that meets all of the electrical, RF, and optical requirements, while also being suitable for the harsh environments of space
- To demonstrate the potential of this technology across a range of different space-relevant applications.
System Architecture
The high-level system is a laser driver module which is software controllable.
Its inputs are:
- electrical power,
- RF signal, and
- computer control.
Its output is:
- a comb of wavelengths around 1550nm on a polarization maintaining optical fiber.
Internally, it consists of a packaged optical comb source PIC mounted on a PCB which drives the laser using four independent current controllers, and a single temperature controller.
The main items to be developed are:
- the comb PIC (photonic integrated circuit),
- the laser package,
- the RF source, and
- the overall laser driver module (Figure 2)
Plan
Three simple phases are envisaged in the project:
- Design,
- Fabrication, and
- Prototyping and Test
Milestones:
- M1: Design Review
- M2: Acceptance Tests
- M3: Final Review
Current Status
Project successfully completed.
