Daily Image
30-04-2014
The new ASTRON Photonics Lab
| Submitter: | Klaas Dijkstra |
| Description: | The mission of the Photonics Lab of ASTRON R&D is to look for photonic solutions for signal transport and signal processing systems for the next generation of giant radio telescopes like LOFAR and SKA. We endeavour to replace parts of existing all-electronic systems with photonic alternatives. For instance because they are cheaper or faster or smaller or offer more bandwidth or consume less energy. Eventually we expect to find some all-photonic solutions with truly remarkable properties. We make use of commercial-of-the-shelf components and novel photonic integrated circuits (PICs) that are developed in collaboration with other R&D institutes and companies. We also offer an elaborate measurement setup, with which the electrical and optical characteristics of photonic ICs can be determined. This spring, the Photonics Lab moved from a cramped room with an awkwardly placed pillar in the middle to a better location. This new room offers the possibility for working on several projects in parallel, while leaving space for the experimental work of visiting students. Most of our photonic integrated circuits and RF/photonic systems have little or no shielding against interference signals (RFI) that originate from e.g. the ASTRON wireless network. To avoid any RFI-related disruption of our measurements, the walls of the lab are covered with a conducting mesh, and the windows with a special metallic foil. Unfortunately, the excellent RFI reflection characteristics of the foil do not only shield for GHz frequencies. It also has good reflectivity in the visible spectrum, which makes it difficult to look in through the windows. Since we are very happy to show you what is happening inside, we are investigating how we can reduce this mirror effect. Until we have found a solution, the best way to see our work is to just come in: feel free to look around and ask some questions of the Photonics Team (Photoneers?): Klaas Dijkstra, Lesley Goudbeek and Peter Maat. |
| Copyright: | ASTRON |
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