LED pumped optical parametric oscillators

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We aim to realize a solid state laser light source based on a whispering gallery resonator pumped by a light emitting diode. The solid state laser active material is optically nonlinear. Thus, the laser light can drive an optical parametric oscillation. This leads to the emission of coherent light whose frequency can be tuned over a wide range by varying the temperature of the light source. This concept greatly benefits from the advantages of the whispering gallery resonator: The high quality factor enables low pump thresholds for the laser action as well as for the parametric oscillation. Thus, a light emitting diode is sufficient to drive the system. Since whispering gallery resonators are based on total internal reflection, light waves in different spectral regions can oscillate simultaneously. Furthermore, the light source is very compact. The resonators measure millimeters in diameter. This project combines two promising developments: Light emitting diodes have become more powerful and efficient over the last years. Whispering gallery resonators have made substantial progress with regard to fabrication and manageability, e.g., in coupling light in and out or mode control. We believe to get new basic insights in the coupling of laser action with optical parametric oscillation and to realize a practical light source that is suitable for trace gas analysis or quantum communication. Furthermore, the light source will set new standards with regard to tunability and form factor.