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Published on: February 12, 2013
Astrophotonics: a new era for astronomical instruments
Joss Bland-Hawthorn1, Pierre Kern
1School of Physics, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia. jbh@physics.usyd.edu.au
Optics Express
|February 4, 2009
Summary
Astrophotonics integrates astronomy and photonics, developing advanced instrumentation for telescopes. This field has yielded innovations like frequency combs and photonic lanterns, enhancing astronomical observation capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Astrophotonics
- Optical Engineering
- Astronomy Instrumentation
Background:
- Astrophotonics is an emerging field at the intersection of astronomy and photonics.
- It has developed over the last decade driven by the needs of astronomical instrumentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the key advancements and applications of astrophotonics.
- To showcase the expanding capabilities of the field in terms of wavelength coverage and technological integration.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing planar waveguides for stellar interferometry and spectrograph miniaturization.
- Employing frequency combs for high-precision exoplanet detection spectroscopy.
- Developing photonic lanterns for single-mode fiber behavior in multimode environments.
- Implementing large mode area fibers for adaptive optics.
- Integrating liquid crystal polymers for coronagraphy and adaptive optics.
Main Results:
- Successful application of waveguides in stellar interferometry and spectrograph miniaturization.
- Demonstrated use of frequency combs for exoplanet detection.
- Development of photonic lanterns enabling single-mode operation.
- Advancements in adaptive optics using large mode area fibers and liquid crystal polymers.
- Expansion of astrophotonics to ultraviolet and mid-infrared wavelengths.
Conclusions:
- Astrophotonics has already delivered novel photonic capabilities for astronomical applications.
- The field continues to push boundaries, extending its reach to shorter (UV) and longer (mid-IR) wavelengths.
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