Long distance measurement using single soliton microcomb

Abstract: Dispersive interferometry (DPI) takes a major interest in optical frequency comb (OFC) based long distance laser-based light detection and ranging (LIDAR) for the merits of strong anti-interference ability and long coherent length. However, the mismatch between the repetition rate of OFC and the resolution of optical spectrum acquisition system induces a large dead-zone which is a major obstacle for practical applications. Here, a new DPI LIDAR on the strength of high-repetition-rate soliton microcomb is demonstrated, which reaches a minimum Allan deviation of 27 nm for an outdoor 1179 m ranging experiment. The proposed scheme approaches a compact, high-accuracy, and none-dead-zone long distance ranging system, opening up new opportunities for emerging applications of frontier scientific researches and advanced manufacturing.