The world’s most accurate ruler, called the optical frequency comb, has revolutionised the measurement of time and space – in fact we use this technology every day as it runs the GPS in our smartphones.
However, today’s optical frequency combs are large, expensive and complex and remain trapped in specialist laboratories. The extraordinary potential of the optical frequency comb remains largely untapped.
We are making optical frequency combs as inexpensive, readily available and accessible as today’s consumer electronics enabling the hunt for earth-like planets, increased internet data speeds, rapid greenhouse gas measurement and more accurate mapping of our earthquake prone areas.
What is an optical frequency comb?
A device capable of translating electronic signals into light waves.
It was first invented at the end of the 20th century and enabled the most precise measurement the world had ever seen, allowing research that transformed satellite global positioning, and the exploration of distant suns.
Our research areas
Our vision
Optical frequency combs will be as cheap, readily available and accessible as today’s consumer electronics, and will enable breakthrough science and industrial transformation for broad societal impact.
Latest news
Developing consistent standards in biomedical imaging for developmental biology and cancer diagnostics
When you’re trying to fix something, you want to make sure you’ve got the right tool for the job – and that’s exactly what our astronomers and technologists set out to do at the Keck Observatory in Hawaii.
COMBS Summer School: Building literacy in optical frequency combs beyond our Centre
When you’re trying to fix something, you want to make sure you’ve got the right tool for the job – and that’s exactly what our astronomers and technologists set out to do at the Keck Observatory in Hawaii.
Building the next-generation of microcomb researchers with our industry partners
When you’re trying to fix something, you want to make sure you’ve got the right tool for the job – and that’s exactly what our astronomers and technologists set out to do at the Keck Observatory in Hawaii.
The inaugural COMBS Awards
When you’re trying to fix something, you want to make sure you’ve got the right tool for the job – and that’s exactly what our astronomers and technologists set out to do at the Keck Observatory in Hawaii.
Our projects
Our team is working on a variety of projects spanning fundamental physics, astronomy, sensing and measurement, information and intelligence, and spectroscopy and microscopy.
Our team
Our team brings together a team of multi-disciplinary researchers spanning optical physics, photonic chip technology, materials science, and sophisticated digital and microwave electronics from eight universities.
Do you want to be a part of our Centre?
Click below for current opportunities.
