Engineering prototype development of an auto-locking laser system for industrial gravimeters with spectroscopic applications

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This proposal seeks funding to complete an engineering prototype of a newly developed, low cost, auto-locked diode laser system. This narrow line width laser system can be frequency stabilized with reference to atomic or molecular spectral lines with out the need for human intervention. Laboratory prototypes of this system have met desired performance specifications in tests with commercial gravimeters. Integration of these laser systems into gravimeters manufactured by the industrial partner can substantially reduce the cost of these sensors, which are used in an array of geophysical applications such as oil and mineral prospecting, borehole mapping, correction of tidal charts and seismic monitoring. Engineering prototypes will be developed to operate at wavelengths of 633 nm and 780 nm. The prototypes at 633 nm will cater to a niche market associated with gravimeters manufactured by the industrial partner. Since these laser systems can be developed over the range of wavelengths accessible using diode lasers, prototypes at 780 nm will demonstrate the potential to address a larger market associated with precision spectroscopy, metrology and laboratory instructional kits. A version of the auto-locked laser system will also be developed as a diode laser-based lidar transmitter. Future engineering prototypes of this system can be integrated into lidar systems used for atmospheric studies and pollution monitoring.