The Regents of the University of Colorado was awarded a $281,187 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program. The 3-year award, starting on September 1, 2024, will support the development of a reliable electro-optic "astrocomb" with 350-1000 nm wavelength coverage. This new nonlinear nanophotonic waveguide technology based on poled thin-film lithium niobate will enable the generation of light in the critical 350-500 nm spectral band, improving upon existing calibration sources and supporting the detection of Earth-like exoplanets. The project aims to advance astronomical instrumentation and lay the groundwork for detecting habitable planets by providing a robust, efficient, and cost-effective calibration system for use with the Keck Planet Finder instrument.
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