The new development uses the quantum tunneling effect to generate a powerful terahertz laser.
Previous studies have shown the presencea small amount of water on the moon. However, the methods used for the measurement were not accurate enough to fully provide the mission with water sources, the authors explain. Wide spectrometers do not distinguish between water molecules, free hydrogen ions and hydroxyl.
To solve this problem, NASA researchersdeveloped quantum cascade lasers. These devices generate photons with every electron transition, using the unique quantum properties of thin materials a few atoms thick.
A tiny laser in the hands of a developer. Image: NASA
In these materials, the laser emits photons witha certain frequency, determined by the thickness of the alternating layers of semiconductors, and not by the elements in the material. In quantum physics, thin layers increase the chance that a photon can then tunnel into the next layer instead of bouncing off the barrier.
Once there, it excites additional photons. Using a generator material with 80-100 layers with a total thickness of less than 10-15 microns, the command source creates a cascade of photons with terahertz energy.
The researchers note that in order to createtraditional optical terahertz lasers require large amounts of energy and large installations. Such devices are difficult to deliver and use in space. A tiny alternative, on the contrary, would be suitable for a lunar mission.
On the cover: a comparative image of a laser and a coin. Photo: NASA
Read more:
Earth-sized sunspot grows 10 times in 2 days: it is directed at us
This is the "twin" of the Earth in the past: a unique planet-ocean was found not far from us
Einstein was right again: after half a century, physicists proved the stability of black holes