We present the development of a fiber-based high-efficiency laser amplifier (HELA) as a demonstrator for future high throughput satellite communication systems operating in the 1µm wavelength range. The work is conducted in the context of ESA’s ARTES ScyLight framework programme (SeCure and Laser Communication Technology) and more specifically within its HydRON project. Combining the experiences of in-house manufactured optical fiber components and of laser developments for space applications, an all-fiber amplifier solution was designed. The realized laboratory testbed simultaneously amplifies a 10-channel seed input from the mW-level up to a total output power of 100W. Leveraging the benefits of advanced fiber technology, an enhanced wall-plug efficiency of about 29% has been achieved.
The power consumption of the laser systems is an important aspect of optical satellite communication technology. We present an optical amplifier for a WDM optical communication system with a simultaneous multichannel amplification in a single fiber in the 1 μm wavelength range. The desired enhanced wall-plug efficiency of ∼30% can only be achieved through fiber technology. Combining the experiences of in-house manufactured optical fiber components and of laser developments for space applications, an all-fiber amplifier solution was designed. Each of the 10 channels can be efficiently amplified up to a total power level of 100W.
Single-frequency fiber amplifiers in MOPA configuration operating at 1064 nm (Yb3+) and around 1550 nm (Er3+ or Er3+:Yb3+) are promising candidates to fulfill the challenging requirements of laser sources of the next generation of interferometric gravitational wave detectors (GWDs). Most probably, the next generation of GWDs is going to operate not only at 1064 nm but also at 1550 nm to cover a broader range of frequencies in which gravitational waves are detectable. We developed an engineering fiber amplifier prototype at 1064 nm emitting 215 W of linearly-polarized light in the TEM00 mode. The system consists of three modules: the seed source, the pre-amplifier, and the main amplifier. The modular design ensures reliable long-term operation, decreases system complexity and simplifies repairing and maintenance procedures. It also allows for the future integration of upgraded fiber amplifier systems without excessive downtimes. We also developed and characterized a fiber amplifier prototype at around 1550 nm that emits 100 W of linearly-polarized light in the TEM00 mode. This prototype uses an Er3+:Yb3+ codoped fiber that is pumped off-resonant at 940 nm. The off-resonant pumping scheme improves the Yb3+-to-Er3+ energy transfer and prevents excessive generation of Yb3+-ASE.
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