Cohering of multiple polariton lasers for sensing applications

摘要

Active modelocking of multiple polariton lasers offers novel capabilities. We outline a strategy based in part on short range polariton-polariton interactions, in part on an actively managed external optical field coherent with an array of polariton lasers, and in part on active management of each of the individual polariton lasers. This actively managed coherent optical field is necessary to establish and maintain long range coherence between multiple spatially distinct polariton lasers. Polariton lasers offer nonlinear behavior at excitation levels of a few quanta of the optical field, time constants of picoseconds or less, and optical wavelength dimensions of individual lasers. Achievement of useful long range, hundreds of meters, polariton based optical sensing appears valuable, but also to require this active cohering of arrays of polariton lasers. Such continuous metrology and real time active control based both on data from observed objects and on observations of the laser system, offer unique opportunities. Quantum limited operation appears accessible in combination with ultrashort time resolution. We consider strategies and capabilities of sensing systems based on such arrays of spatially distinct, but collectively coherent, polariton lasers. Significant advances in a number of technical areas over decades appear needed to make useful systems of this kind.