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 […]