Optimization of laser stabilization via self-injection locking to a whispering-gallery-mode microresonator:...

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Laser Physics
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Self-injection locking of diode lasers to microresonators is crucial for frequency stabilization and linewidth reduction.
• High-quality-factor microresonators enable advanced laser source development.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate and implement self-injection locking for microresonator-based laser sources.
• Analyze the impact of locking phase and coupling rate on laser stabilization.
• Demonstrate frequency modulation capabilities for advanced applications.

Main Methods:

• Constructed microresonator-based laser sources with 1 Hz instantaneous linewidth.
• Performed analytical and experimental studies on self-injection locking parameters.
• Utilized injection current tuning for frequency modulation within the self-injection locking regime.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated precise control of laser frequency through locking phase adjustment.
• Achieved fast, continuous, and linear frequency modulation via injection current tuning.
• Conceptually demonstrated 10 km coherent frequency-modulated continuous wave LIDAR.
• Measured velocities as low as sub-micrometer per second.

Conclusions:

• Microresonator-stabilized diode lasers offer precise frequency control and modulation capabilities.
• The developed laser sources are suitable for demanding applications like long-range LIDAR and high-resolution spectroscopy.
• This technology holds potential for space debris monitoring and object classification.