We explore the physics of excitations of a small number of quanta in microresonators. In particular, we examine this physics as it relates to the dynamics of nonlinearly coupled microlaser oscillators used to generate time resolved coherent optical wavefronts. We seek wave fronts that can be both stabilized and also rapidly reconfigured by purely electro-optic means. Novel opportunities are offered by reductions in the number of quanta needed for laser, or laser-like action; advances in microcavity nonlinear optics; densely packed arrays of microlasers; adjustable micro- optical delay lines; synchronization of pulse envelopes in physically distinct lasers; and locking of optical fields in physically distinct lasers. Quantum statistical issues could become important, but are not emphasized here. Strategies for realizing an optical analog of high repetition rate agile microwave phased array radar with true delay are examined.

Date Published: 6 June 1997
PDF: 13 pages
Proc. SPIE 2994, Physics and Simulation of Optoelectronic Devices V, (6 June 1997); doi: 10.1117/12.275574

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 2994:
Physics and Simulation of Optoelectronic Devices V
Marek Osinski; Weng W. Chow, Editor(s)