Laser Metrology

Is it possible to pinpoint the distance to the Sun as precise as the breadth of a hair? In order to help addressing such questions that focus on fundamental physics topics, the Laser Metrology Group was established at FBH in 2008. The group contributes to fundamental research by developing unique lasers that are a prerequisite for ultra-high precision laser-based measurements. The research is carried out in close cooperation with the Quantum Optics and Metrology group headed by Prof. Peters at the Humboldt Universität zu Berlin. The cooperation provides the framework within which both parties combine their expertise to foster the development of laser systems for laser metrology. Hence semiconductor lasers are developed at FBH and laser-based precision measurements executed at HUB. Laser metrology applications make high demands on laser performance, specifically on optical output power, power and frequency stability, beam quality, compactness, and reliability. Fundamental physics driven applications therefore play the role of a technology driver for the development of semiconductor-based lasers. In turn, fundamental physics experiments benefit from the progress made on laser development as well as from the fact, that semiconductor lasers can be tailored for specific applications.

The work of the Laser Metrology Group addresses topics within the following fields:

• Development of narrow linewidth cw diode lasers for precision laser spectroscopy, e.g. for atomic clocks
• Development of highly stable mode-locked diode lasers for optical metrology
• Micro-optical integration of complex diode laser systems for optical metrology. These activities can benefit from know-how developed by the Hybrid Laser Systems Group at FBH
• Development of diode laser systems for space-based communication and for space-based experiments on fundamental physics topics
• Laser measurement and control: development of electro-optical systems for frequency and power stabilization of diode lasers as well as for the characterization of their optical properties (laser linewidth, frequency and power stability, …)