Searching for exoplanets with a laser frequency comb

2015–present | Research of this kind demands high-precision astronomic spectroscopy, which relies on the accurate calibration of wavelengths measured by spectrographs.

Working with the University of Geneva, CSEM developed a laser frequency comb to ensure the measurement performance and calibration of spectrographs. The first calibration tests – carried out on the GIANO-B spectrograph at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on the Canary Islands – were successful.

The system’s CSEM-designed architecture, which operates in the near infrared range (1300–1800 nm), relies on standard optical fibers and includes components employed and approved for use in telecommunications, ensuring a highly robust design as well as flawless performance and reliability.

The prototype consists of three easily transportable plates measuring 45 cm x 45 cm - a real asset for routine operations at observatories.