Phys.org June 3, 2024
Photonic lantern (PL) spatial multiplexers enable efficient conversion between multiple single-mode (SM) sources and a multimode (MM) waveguide of the same dimension. PL multiplexers operate by facilitating adiabatic transitions between the SM arrayed space and the single MM space. However, current fabrication methods are forcing the size of these devices to multi-millimeters, making integration with micro-scale photonic systems quite challenging. A team of researchers (Israel, USA – industry) presented the design, fabrication, and characterization of a 6-mode mixing, 375 µm long PL that enabled the conversion between six single-mode inputs and a single six-mode waveguide. The PL was designed using a genetic algorithm based inverse design approach and fabricated directly on a 7-core fiber using a commercial two-photon polymerization-based 3D printer and a photopolymer… read more. Open Access TECHNICAL ARTICLEÂ
Photonic lantern layout. Credit: Light: Science & Applications volume 13, Article number: 126 (2024)