| Project Detail |
SIROCO (SImple and RObust laser source with EU supply chain and Cavity and injection-free Optical parametric oscillator for spaceborne lidar) aims to reach EU independence for high-power lasers in the eye-safe region. A solution based on wavelength conversion from a 1µm laser will be matured, ensuring EU supply chain independence for power laser emission in the 1.5-3µm range. Such breakthrough laser will build the foundation of next greenhouse gases (GHG) spaceborne sensors by Integrated Path Differential Absorption Lidar (IPDA), by which GHG of interest can be probed in the 1.6µm or 2µm eye-safe regions.
To meet the stringent spectral, spatial beam, and power properties required, efficient and versatile wavelength converters such as Optical Parametric Oscillators (OPOs) pumped by mature 1µm power lasers are key enabling technologies. This is also the approach in the European Methane Remote Sensing Lidar Mission (MERLIN).
SIROCO will mature innovative critical optical space technologies to TRL6, including a hybrid fiber/bulk 1µm laser combined with a new Backward Wave OPO (BWOPO) concept. This will lead to a simplification shock compared to the state of the art, as no optical cavity is required (higher robustness and easier integration), nor any OPO seed source (higher compactness and simplicity in wavelength control). It will increase EU competitiveness by faster integrated, less risky, more sensitive future space IPDA.
SIROCO will develop nonlinear crystals to ensure an EU supply chain, which are key components for various applications (general laser physics, IPDA emitters, quantum applications). Their exploitation path towards future space LIDAR and quantum communications will be delivered through two public technical roadmaps.
SIROCO is a 4-year 3MEuros valued action, gathering renown research & academic organisations and SMEs, and supported by an Advisory Board with experts from the European Space research, Atmosphere Science and Quantum communities. |
