The Macalester College Department of Physics and Astronomy is implementing a major revision of its intermediate and advanced laboratories to introduce laboratory projects based on modern optical techniques and phenomena. In this project the department will employ optical fibers as a medium for experimental studies of basic optical phenomena. Guided waves, spectral properties of impurity ions, nonlinear effects, sensor applications and communication techniques are examples of techniques which will become accessible experimental investigation. The affected courses include Optics, Optical Electronics, and advanced student laboratory studies. The proposed instrumentation supports two laboratory stations for optical fiber projects. The equipment includes a fiber projects kit, components to expand the kit's capabilities to two laboratory stations, a tunable broadband light source, two phase-sensitive detection systems and two computer workstations for real-time instrument control and data analysis. The college will match the award with an equal amount of funds.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
8951502
Program Officer
Duncan E. McBride
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1989-06-01
Budget End
1991-11-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1989
Total Cost
$26,140
Indirect Cost
Name
Macalester College
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Saint Paul
State
MN
Country
United States
Zip Code
55105