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The QCL source addresses the challenges of inefficiency, high power consumption, and bulky designs typically associated with existing solutions. It is fabricated with 80 to 100 alternating layers of semiconductor materials, each layer only a few microns thick. These layers create a cascade effect that amplifies terahertz-energy photon generation while consuming significantly less voltage. To mitigate the natural beam dissipation of QCLs, the source is integrated with a waveguide and thin optical antenna, reducing signal loss by 50%. Additionally, the waveguide employs a flared design with a diagonal feed horn, achieving high modal confinement and increasing beam coupling efficiency to 82%, compared to 37% in conventional setups. This compact design, smaller than a U.S. quarter, fits within payload constraints and enables high-powered terahertz beams for precise spectroscopic measurements. The terahertz transceiver enhances measurement precision by integrating two back-to-back hybrid couplers and Schottky diodes as detectors, providing a 35 dB dynamic range. Operating in the 2.0–3.2 THz frequency range, the transceiver is optimized for versatility across astrophysics, heliophysics, and planetary science applications. It seamlessly couples the QCL-generated signal onto the waveguide, ensuring stable and accurate spectroscopic data collection. This compact and energy-efficient transceiver delivers exceptional sensitivity, enabling it to analyze planetary materials, atmospheric components, and interstellar phenomena with unmatched resolution. With its compact, tunable design and high spectral resolution, the QCL source and transceiver represents a significant advancement for remote sensing and planetary surface characterization, offering a versatile solution for both NASA and commercial applications. The QCL system is at technology readiness level (TRL) 4 (component and/or breadboard validation in lab) and is available for patent licensing.

Components of the HYDRA system include an RFID reader (aka an RFID transceiver or interrogator), RF cables, antennas, and one or more Intelligent Multiplexer Modules (IMMs). The IMM is the core building block of the HYDRA system. In one of its basic embodiments, the IMM comprises an RF directional coupler, RF switch, RFID chip, micro-controller, and power generation and management hardware. In this basic implementation, a single RF port from the RFID reader is attached to the IMM and transfers power thereto. Internally within the IMM, the RF directional coupler diverts a small amount of RF power to rectification and power management circuitry for conversion to DC power that drives the RFID chip, microcontroller, and RF switch. The RFID chip enables communication with the RFID reader and allows the reader to administer changes to the microcontroller‘s embedded software. The microcontroller controls the RF switch, which passes power along to one or more output channels. Connections to the output channels can include antennas, additional IMMs, or other sensors. The HYDRA system may include numerous alternate embodiments to enhance and customize the basic functionality. In one embodiment, the microcontroller is replaced with a simple timer. In another embodiment, the switch has multiple output ports to connect to a distributed chain of HYDRA system or local antennas. Also, the entirety of RF power exiting a HYDRA module can be rectified and used to power a local sensor node, which could be implemented via WiFi or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Features of the HYDRA system include the ability to cover both open regions and enclosures, the ability to switch RF power to an unused load for assisting in the resolution of tag antenna ambiguities, and the ability to accept plug-and-play add-ons such that the reader’s software can use the system without requiring any embedded modifications. The HYDRA system is technology readiness level (TRL) 7 (system prototype demonstrated in an operational environment) and is now available for patent licensing. Please note that NASA does not manufacture products itself for commercial sale.