Meta-material Optics for Mid-wave Infrared Image Differentiation

Quantum Ventura Inc in collaboration with CalTech propose to develop a meta optic element to reduce the power consumption requirements and latency in high-speed target recognition applications including hypesonic vehicles. As part of Phase 1 effort, we plan to develop and demonstrate a thin (<1mm) meta-optic MWIR device that performs a spatial differentiation operation. For Phase 1, we will 1) survey existing meta-optic methodologies, 2) design, model and analyze meta-optic device options, 3) fabricate and characterize a meta-optic sample, 4) advance work in multifunction meta-optics and 5) create a phase 2 plan and submit the phase 1 report.