Multiwavelength sources using laser diodes frequency-locked to atomic resonances

Abstract

It is shown that low-cost compact disk AlGaAs laser diodes make it possible to realize manifold optical sources with precise and stable wavelengths when locked to rubidium vapor resonances. Many optical frequency references can be obtained with the use of absorption cells containing a foreign gas or by placing cells in static magnetic fields. The same approach can be used with other wavelengths required by optical fiber communications.