Multi-Wavelength Laser with Perpendicular Polarization

Researchers at Stanford have developed a multi-wavelength laser with perpendicular polarization, which supports easy and independent measurement in various optical sensors for improved accuracy and speed. The need to develop techniques for measuring the distance/direction to an object, identifying an object or terrain, or detecting speed, temperature, and material distribution is driving new research into laser light generation and beam steering. While single wavelength lasers can provide one data signal at a measurement cycle, multi-wavelength lasers can provide multiple signals at one cycle, though a complicated component is typically required for separating the signals. In the new apparatus, the laser cavity (comprising a meta-mirror plus DBR mirror or metal mirror) has two separate resonance modes that have perpendicular polarization and different wavelength. Spectral separation between modes can be controlled by changing meta-mirror geometry.

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