νn=n⋅fr+f0nu sub n equals n center dot f sub r plus f sub 0
: Generated by modulating a continuous laser with radio waves, allowing for highly tunable tooth spacing. Optical Frequency Combs | NIST optical frequency comb
(Repetition Rate) : The spacing between the teeth, determined by how fast the laser pulses. νn=n⋅fr+f0nu sub n equals n center dot f
: Used to calibrate spectrographs on telescopes to detect tiny wobbles in distant stars, helping find Earth-like exoplanets . In a spectrum, these individual frequency lines look
In a spectrum, these individual frequency lines look like the . Because the distance between these "teeth" is known and perfectly uniform, scientists can use them to measure an unknown frequency by comparing it to the nearest "tooth" on the comb. How It Works
: Comb-based LIDAR systems can measure distances with millimeter or even centimeter precision over long ranges. Types of Frequency Combs