778.1 nm distributed feedback lasers for Rb two-photon atomic systems with sub-4 kHz linewidths

A new epitaxial layer design with a double mode expander layer, high refractive index claddings, and an aluminum-free active area has been used to demonstrate distributed feedback lasers operating at 778.1 nm wavelength with reduced Lorentzian linewidth aimed at miniature atomic clock applications. The design also reduces the vertical beam divergence to improve the modal matching with optical fibers as well as maintain the high power output and reduce the emission linewidth. The lasers demonstrate single-mode operation with an over 35 dB side-mode suppression ratio, a power output ≤58 mW, a coupling efficiency to tapered fibers ≤40%, and a Lorentzian linewidth of 3.7 kHz. The performance allowed the free-running distributed feedback lasers to demonstrate spectroscopy of Rb vapor, which resolved the 85Rb and 87Rb two-photon transitions.