Mid-Infrared Fiber Coupler for Multiband Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) Lasers Navy SBIR FY2011.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2011.2 Topic No.: N112-089 Topic Title: Mid-Infrared Fiber Coupler for Multiband Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) Lasers Proposal No.: N112-089-0713 Firm: TeraDiode, Inc. 11A Beaver Brook Road Littleton, Massachusetts 01460-6232 Contact: Bien Chann Phone: (978) 952-2501 Web Site: http://www.teradiode.com Abstract: There is a compelling need for scaling the output of mid-infrared lasers to much higher power, brightness, and energy. Applications of such sources include spectroscopic detection of the "fingerprint" of molecular absorptions and infrared countermeasure systems in response to increasingly sophisticated seeker technologies and increased threat ranges. We propose a Phase I configuration that demonstrates: 1) brightness scaling by combining multiple laser elements within a wavelength band (4 m); and 2) brightness scaling by using 2 to 1 fiber combiner, with each input leg at different wavelength band. TeraDiode's unique technology will offer scalability of power and brightness to over an order-of-magnitude from that of present Mid-IR laser systems, to the 100-W-class for the Phase II demonstration. Benefits: The technology of high brightness long wavelength semiconductor laser modules and fiber combiners developed under this SBIR program is intended to be dual use for commercial and government applications. Commercial and government applications of this technology include IRCM, chemical and biological sensing, LADAR, free space optical communications, and noninvasive medical diagnostic applications. TeraDiode will actively pursue these additional applications as defense R&D programs in this area develop the technology over the next five years. Return