III-V Epi has completed the Innovate UK-funded, SHARK-VECSELs project with the University of Strathclyde. The project has successfully developed high power, narrow linewidth, visible lasers for next-generation, strontium-atom-based, quantum atomic clocks.

Dr. Jennifer Hastie, Director of the Institute of Photonics at Strathclyde University, said, “The SHARK-VECSELs project represents a significant developmental step in the commercialisation of atomic-clock-based, precision positioning and timing devices. III-V Epi used its MOCVD facility to produce an AlGaInP-based VECSEL structure which the University of Strathclyde used to realise lasers with greater than 130mW single mode operation, at 689nm. This is the wavelength used to cool neutral strontium atoms in quantum atomic clocks.”

Quantum technologies play a mission-critical role in defence, security and other sensitive markets, but require low volume production quantities. III-V Epi was set up specifically to address the needs of this low-volume, fast turnaround market. The £50k Government SHARK-VECSELs project has helped consolidate III-V Epi’s critical position in the world-wide, commercial, quantum supply chain.

The UK-SHARK-VECSEL’s project full name is Supply cHAin for stRontium clocK Vertical External Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers.