Optical frequency combs are a groundbreaking class of light sources that have transformed fields such as precision measurement and optical analysis. They enable the generation of a spectrum composed of equally spaced, phase-coherent lines, which can act as a ruler for light. This unique property opens the door to a wide range of high-impact applications—from ultra-precise timekeeping and fundamental physics experiments to next-generation telecommunication systems and advanced medical diagnostics.
Despite their potential and significant progress in recent years, the widespread adoption of optical frequency combs remains limited. Most current systems are still custom-built, optimized for specific experiments, and largely restricted to laboratory environments. One of the key barriers is the lack of versatile, stable, and user-friendly sources that combine high performance with commercial viability.
This project aims to tackle that gap by developing a high-quality optical frequency comb source with three essential characteristics:
• Versatile repetition rate to adapt to different use cases (10 MHz-10 GHz)
• Excellent stability for reliable long-term operation
• High output power to make the technology usable across a broader range of applications.
To achieve this, the project investigates and leverages the strengths of the three main approaches to frequency comb generation: mode-locked lasers, electro-optic modulators, and microresonator-based combs. Each of these technologies offers distinct benefits but also suffers from limitations—such as fixed repetition rates, poor stability, or low power output.
By integrating novel design strategies and innovative components, the project seeks to overcome these limitations and deliver a compact, robust, and scalable solution. The resulting system would not only enhance the capabilities of existing research infrastructures but also open up new application areas—from field-deployable instruments to industrial systems requiring precision optical sources.
