Optical waves are essential for a variety of applications such as imaging, communication, and directed energy. Propagating through air or multi-mode fiber, these waves can be patterned or decomposed using orthogonal spatial modes. However, the systems required for wavefront manipulations are often cumbersome and large, limiting their use to high-end applications.
Advancements in Photonic Technology
A recent study has introduced a free-standing microscale photonic lantern spatial mode (de-)multiplexer using 3D nanoprinting. This advancement marks a significant progress in photonic technology due to its compactness, minimal footprint, and ability to adhere directly to photonic circuits, optical fibers, lasers, and photodetectors.
The study was conducted by Ph.D. candidate student Yoav Dana, under the supervision of Professor Dan Marom and his team at the Institute of Applied Physics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Collaborating with scientists from Nokia Bell Labs, the researchers successfully developed and demonstrated a free-standing microscale photonic lantern spatial mode (de-)multiplexer.
The photonic lantern was fabricated using a 3D nanoprinting technique with direct laser writing, directly applied onto an optical fiber tip. This device converts between optical waves containing multiple modes or distorted wavefronts and array of separated single mode optical signals, making it ideal for various applications including space division multiplexing in optical communication networks.
The technology utilized in this spatial multiplexer allows for seamless integration into a variety of technological contexts. By harnessing the capabilities of 3D nano-printing and high-index contrast waveguides, the researchers have created a compact and versatile device that can be printed onto nearly any solid platform with high accuracy and fidelity.
Significance of the Advancement
Professor Dan Marom emphasized the importance of this breakthrough, stating that it enables and promotes spatial multiplexing for diverse optical systems and applications. The development of this microscale photonic lantern spatial mode (de-)multiplexer makes space division multiplexing technology more accessible and integrable, opening up new possibilities for optical communication and imaging applications.
Device Performance
The researchers showcased the device design using genetic algorithms, its fabrication onto a fiber tip, and the characterization of a six-mode mixing, 375µm long photonic lantern. Despite its compact size, the device exhibited low insertion loss, wavelength sensitivity, and polarization and mode-dependent losses, making it a promising technology for future optical systems.
The advancement in microscale photonic lantern spatial mode (de-)multiplexer technology represents a crucial step towards enhancing optical communication networks, imaging modalities, and other applications requiring precise spatial manipulation of optical waves. The compactness, versatility, and high performance of this device pave the way for its widespread integration and utilization in various technological fields.
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