Physics and Astronomy Colloquium
Kerr Frequency Comb Oscillators
Presented by Andrey Matsko, Principal Engineer, OEwaves Inc, Pasadena
Research involving monolithic optical micro- and nano-cavities experiences explosive growth lately due to steady interest in the development of compact and scalable optical and photonic devices. For instance, these cavities are critically important in chip-scale optical modulators, filters, delay lines, switches, and sensors. The number of the different types of the cavities increases every day and the basic research of their properties is steadily followed by applied research efforts.
The main theme of this presentation, study of generation of optical frequency combs on a chip, is related to one of the most promising recently emerged applications of monolithic microcavities. A nonlinear microcavity pumped with continuous wave light can generate phase locked / mode locked multiple frequency optical tones or an optical frequency comb. Such a comb, in turn, can be used to generate microwave signals with higher spectral purity than one of the signals created by frequency multiplied quartz oscillators.
The comb generation involves many interacting optical modes and has rich dynamics. The oscillation can be described using either a set of forced coupled ordinary differential equations or an externally driven damped Nonlinear Schrodinger Equation with periodical boundary conditions and, hence, is closely related to the nonlinear phenomena observed in a variety of physical systems. In this presentation we review basic properties of the optical frequency comb generation in microcavities and also describe several peculiar features of the comb dynamics.
3:30 pm, Tuesday, March 3, 2015
PAIS-2540, PAIS
Individuals with disabilities who need an auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in P&A events should contact the Physics Department (phone: 505-277-2616, email: physics@unm.edu) well in advance to ensure your needs are accomodated. Event handouts can be provided in alternative accessible formats upon request. Please contact the Physics front office if you need written information in an alternative format.
A schedule of talks within the Department of Physics and Astronomy is available on the P&A web site at http://physics.unm.edu/pandaweb/events/index.php