The focus of the research area laser technology and optronics is in basic and applied research in the areas of lasers and photonic components in the near and mid-infrared and associated laser metrology. In particular, the specific requirements in optronics in the wavelength range of 1.5 µm - 12 µm are addressed (short-wave (SWIR), mid-wave (MWIR), long-wave (LWIR) infrared).

The research challenges are complex and address, for example, the increase of power and performance, the efficient generation of new wavelengths or the implementation of new laser concepts and architectures to achieve specific operating data under special boundary conditions (size, weight, reduced cooling options, intermittent operation, etc.). This requires extensive research into laser-active materials and components, from individual photonic components to system aspects.

Laser architecture	non-linear optics	fiber-optic components

New laser architectures: We are investigating new resonator arrangements to improve beam quality and robustness of lasers. This also includes modelling and simulation of laser dynamics and thermal effects in lasers based on rate equations and cavity-internal field propagation. To research and optimize new laser architectures and non-linear converters, laser structures are modeled three-dimensionally and examined using field propagation. The development of suitable simulation tools is also of particular importance.

Lasers and non-linear optics in the SWIR / MWIR / LWIR range: In close cooperation with Fraunhofer IOSB, we investigate and develop new laser sources and non-linear converters. This includes solid-state and fiber lasers based on rare-earth and transition metals (Er³⁺, Tm³⁺, Ho³⁺, Cr²⁺) as direct emitters or as pump lasers as well as non-linear converters based on mid-IR materials (ZnGeP₂, GaAs, etc.). We also investigate new laser materials and non-linear materials with spectroscopic methods in order to evaluate their suitability as active material and develop and investigate miniaturized resonator structures and opto-mechanical realizations for robust and integrated laser systems.

Design and development of fiber optic components in the SWIR / MWIR: We develop and investigate spliced ​​fiber components to increase the performance of fiber lasers and fiber amplifiers, such as fiber End-Caps.

Free space laser communication: We investigate atmospheric propagation and perform research in laser communication and operate a laser-communication lab with KIT-internal test ranges over a few hundred meters and, in cooperation with Fraunhofer IOSB, an optical propagation range of approx. 8 km in distance.

Chair of Optronics
Contact: Prof. Marc Eichhorn