Aperiodic multi-notch FBG filters for astronomical positronium detection

Current astronomical detection of Positronium (Ps) atoms through gamma-ray emission is inherently limited by a 3-degree angular resolution. Alternatively, the triplet state of Ps is capable of producing a recombination spectrum in the near-infrared band, which would provide the potential to increase the angular resolution by a factor of 104 . The most promising signature is the Ps Balmer alpha line (Psα) at 1312.22nm. This observation scheme has never been implemented from ground-based telescopes due to the bright airglow. Now, the FBG-based OH suppression technique presents a promising solution for removing airglow emission lines surrounding the target signature. In this proceeding, we present the design and fabrication details of the first astronomy J-band FBG filters and early results of the OH suppression unit specifically developed for Ps detection.