Laser Metrology

Is it possible to pinpoint the distance to the Sun as precise as the breadth of a hair? In order to
help addressing such questions that focus on fundamental physics topics, the Laser Metrology
Group was established at FBH in 2008. The group contributes to fundamental research by
developing unique lasers that are a prerequisite for ultra-high precision laser-based
measurements. The research is carried out in close cooperation with the Quantum Optics and
Metrology group headed by Prof. Peters at the Humboldt Universitt zu Berlin. The cooperation
provides the framework within which both parties combine their expertise to foster the
development of laser systems for laser metrology. Hence semiconductor lasers are developed at
FBH and laser-based precision measurements executed at HUB. Laser metrology applications
make high demands on laser performance, specifically on optical output power, power and
frequency stability, beam quality, compactness, and reliability. Fundamental physics driven
applications therefore play the role of a technology driver for the development of semiconductorbased lasers. In turn, fundamental physics experiments benefit from the progress made on laser
development as well as from the fact, that semiconductor lasers can be tailored for specific
applications.
The work of the Laser Metrology Group addresses topics within the following fields:

Development of narrow linewidth cw diode lasers for precision laser spectroscopy, e.g.
for atomic clocks

Development of highly stable mode-locked diode lasers for optical metrology

Micro-optical integration of complex diode laser systems for optical metrology. These
activities can benefit from know-how developed by the Hybrid Laser Systems Group at
FBH

Development of diode laser systems for space-based communication and for space-based
experiments on fundamental physics topics

Laser measurement and control: development of electro-optical systems for frequency

and power stabilization of diode lasers as well as for the characterization of their optical
properties (laser linewidth, frequency and power stability, )