High-Frequency 40 GB/s MWIR and LWIR Metamaterials-based Electro-Optical Modulators for Free-Space Optical Communications
ID: N24A-T003Type: Phase I
Overview

Topic

High-Frequency 40 GB/s MWIR and LWIR Metamaterials-based Electro-Optical Modulators for Free-Space Optical Communications

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: STTRPhase: Phase IYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2479569

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of high-frequency 40 GB/s MWIR and LWIR metamaterials-based electro-optical modulators for free-space optical communications. The objective is to develop tunable metamaterials that enable narrow-linewidth multi-watt laser transmitters operating with ultrafast modulation (40 GHz) and high-beam quality in the 4 to 12 µ spectral region. This technology aims to provide optical communications in RF-denied environments.

    Free-space optical (FSO) communication links offer high-data rate, low latency, secure, wireless mobile communication that is difficult to jam or intercept and does not require spectrum management. However, current FSO systems in the short wave Infrared (SWIR) regime face limitations due to atmospheric effects. Recent analysis has shown advantages to using long-wave infrared (LWIR) wavelengths for FSO links through the atmosphere. Mid-wave infrared (MWIR) systems also share these advantages but have been limited by high-cost, low-bandwidth, and low-output power sources.

    The proposed solution involves the development of tunable metamaterial-based optical modulators capable of providing dynamic narrow linewidth tunable properties within the MWIR/LWIR spectral range. The Phase I effort will focus on developing concepts and demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed modulator through numerical simulation and breadboard demonstration. Phase II will involve fabricating and demonstrating a prototype system with a laser transmitter operating with the modulator. Phase III will focus on finalizing packaging for military and commercial applications, including telecommunications, imaging, sensing, satellite communications, fiber-optic networks, wireless networking, and more.

    The project duration is not specified, but interested parties should refer to the solicitation notice for more information. Funding specifics are also not provided. For more details and to access the solicitation notice, visit the SBIR topic link or the solicitation agency website.

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