Mid IR hollow waveguide integration

Zoom onto mid infrared hollow waveguides inscribed in ceramic.

One activity within the Spectroscopy Group of RAL Space consists of developing enabling technologies relevant to laser-based instruments for molecular spectroscopy and remote sensing, particularly in the mid infrared region where most of molecules have strong spectral signatures. Those technological developments aim to enable new science in the field of atmospheric studies, earth observation and astronomy, through new instrumental capabilities, both ground based and space-based. Miniaturization of laser sensors is a highly important aspect to facilitate real world applications, particularly as fas as space-borne applications area concerned. The group work on optical integration using hollow waveguide (HW) technology for mid IR laser systems. HW technology enables the development of laser based instruments with unprecedented robustness, low weight and low cost, by suppressing the need for conventional opto-mechanical optical systems.