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Advanced Precision Optical Oscillator (APROPOS)

The Advanced Precision Optical Oscillator (aPROPOS) program will leverage advances in materials and lasers to develop new precision microwave-stable local oscillators with extremely low phase noise (up to 50 dB better than the current state-of-the-art) at small offsets from microwave carrier frequencies. This capability will enhance performance of radar, electronic warfare and communications systems in weak signal detection at increased standoff ranges, slow moving target detection, clutter suppression, and electronic warfare "fingerprinting" (specific emitter identification).

Program Plans

Improve phase noise power spectral density by 25 dB and prove the utility of multi-line laser cavities and opto-electronic oscillators.
Identify and characterize environmental susceptibilities and define path to 50 dB improvement over state-of-the-art.
Demonstrate 50 dB improvements in lab setting.
Develop miniaturization approach and packing concept to mitigate environmental susceptibilities.
Miniaturize devices in ruggedized packages.
Demonstrate performance in tactical environments inserted in system testbeds.