Qualification of Femtosecond Laser-Written Waveguides for Space Environment

Abstract

Space-based technologies find in optical quantum communication a challenging and promising application. In fact, quantum networks relying on optical fibers are affected by non negligible losses, and there is no possibility of amplifying quantum states. For this reason, free-space optical transmissions will be necessary for the creation of a world-wide optical quantum network. In this respect, satellite-based quantum technologies represent an appealing implementation [1], [2]. However, during space missions, the equipment should withstand harsh conditions, like exposure to high-energy protons and γ-rays, periodic temperature cycling, vibrations and mechanical shocks. For this reason, it is necessary to qualify any component before sending it into space [3]. Moreover, due to the limited available volume in a satellite, all the equipment should be as compact as possible, so the use of integrated optical devices could be beneficial for scaling the complexity of the performed tasks.