Segment Data and Related Information (Statement of Operations Data) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Sep. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2011	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating loss	$ (6,293)	$ (8,758)	$ (8,884)	$ (11,690)	$ (14,357)	$ (11,201)	$ (4,194)	$ (2,775)	$ (35,625)	$ (32,527)	$ (21,426)
Fiber Optics
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating loss									(26,684)	(30,276)	(19,888)
Photovoltaics
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Operating loss									$ (8,941)	$ (2,251)	$ (1,538)