Photonic Lanterns
Our photonic lanterns are fiber optic devices that efficiently and reciprocally convert N spatial modes between a few-mode structure to N single-mode fibers. They feature low losses and a compact form factor. Mode-selective configurations are available, enabling a specific input mode to be routed to a designated single-mode fiber with high isolation.
Photonic lanterns are particularly useful in applications where the collected signal contains a few modes, while the detection modality requires single-mode light, such as coherent detection or using single-mode operating devices. By connecting every single-mode fiber to a different detector, the photonic lanterns can increase the signal-to-noise ratio by coherently summating the detected photons or achieve additional contrast based on the distinct sensitivity of each mode to a given scattering profile.
Overview
Our mode-selective photonic lanterns are currently available for multiplexing two modes (LP01 and LP11) or three modes (LP01, LP11x, LP11y). Higher channel-count configurations (up to 7 single-mode fibers) are also available for applications where deterministic mode-to-fiber mapping is not required. Configurations are available for operating ranges centered at 850, 1300, and 1550 nm. Our R&D team actively develops additional configurations; contact us to learn more about possibilities.
Key features:
- Low insertion loss
- High Isolation Mode Selectivity
- Compact size
Product lines
PHLA0780A: mode selective photonic lantern, 2 modes, 850 nm
Coming soon!
Supported modes: LP01 and LP11
Wavelength Range: 780-970 nm
Insertion Loss: ≤0.2 dB (Typical)
Optical Return Loss: ≥20 dB (≥60 dB for FC/APC connector)
Isolation (predicted value): ≥28 dB
Single-mode fiber type: 780HP
PHLA1300A : mode selective photonic lantern, 2 modes, 1300 nm
Supported modes: LP01 and LP11
Wavelength Range: 1250-1600 nm
Insertion Loss: ≤0.2 dB (Typical)
Optical Return Loss: ≥20 dB (≥60 dB for FC/APC connector)
Isolation (predicted value): ≥28 dB
Single-mode fiber: SMF-28
PHLE0780A: mode selective photonic lantern, 3 modes, 850 nm
Coming soon!
Supported modes: LP01, LP11x, and LP11y
Wavelength Range: 780-970 nm
Insertion Loss: ≤0.2 dB (Typical)
Optical Return Loss: ≥20 dB (≥60 dB for FC/APC connector)
Isolation (predicted value): ≥28 dB
Single-mode fiber type: 780HP
PHLE1300A: mode selective photonic lantern, 3 modes, 1300 nm
Supported modes: LP01, LP11x, and LP11y
Wavelength Range: 1250-1600 nm
Insertion Loss: ≤0.2 dB (Typical)
Optical Return Loss: ≥20 dB (≥60 dB for FC/APC connector)
Isolation (predicted value): ≥28 dB
Single-mode fiber: SMF-28
PHLD1300A : photonic lantern, 7 ports, 1300 nm
Wavelength Range: 1250-1600 nm
Insertion Loss: ≤0.2 dB (Typical)
Optical Return Loss: ≥20 dB (≥60 dB for FC/APC connector)
Single-mode fiber: SMF-28
Contact our engineers
This product line is actively under development. Additional configurations, including non-selective photonic lanterns or designs utilizing up to 7 fibers, are available upon request.
Applications related to this product
Biomedical Imaging
Remote Sensing and Communication
Need a Custom Product?
Castor Optics offers customized options for all of available products. Please provide a detailed description of your inquiry and our team of scientists and engineers will evaluate your request.