
Optical Quantum Technologies for Compact Rubidium Vapor-Cell Frequency Standards in Space using Small Satellites

A. N. Dinkelaker et al. (2019), JBIS, 72, pp.74-82
Refcode: 2019.72.74
Keywords: Optical clock, Rubidium, Two-photon transition, Diode lasers, Quantum technology, Small satellite mission, Modular satellite
Abstract:As part of the phase 0/A of the QUEEN mission, we evaluated our payload and satellite platform heritage and studied
feasible mission scenarios for demonstrating optical frequency references aboard small satellites. We propose an optical
vapor-cell frequency reference payload based on the 5S1/2 → 5D5/2 two-photon transition in 85Rb with low size, weight,
and power budgets. In conjunction with an optical frequency comb, which can be used as an optical-to-microwave
frequency divider, our payload could be advanced to a compact and simple vapor-cell based optical atomic clock. At the
center of the payload is a laser system, based on micro-integrated laser technology, consisting of two independently
frequency stabilized extended cavity diode lasers in a master-oscillator-power-amplifier configuration (ECDL-MOPA) at 778
nm. Ground-based development and environmental testing accompany the design and definition phase. Small satellites
provide perfect vehicles for in-orbit tests of key technologies, due to the low associated costs compared to large satellite
missions, and their potential for fast implementation. The requirements of our payload design are matched by the
capabilities of the modular, flight-proven TUBiX20 satellite platform. This platform is designed to support demanding small
science, technology and Earth observation missions of roughly 20 kg. Its modular approach realized in hard- and software
allows scaling the platform’s capabilities for a wide variety of payloads while maintaining short development cycles. In
this paper, we discuss the options and requirements for sending a compact, high-stability two-photon optical frequency
reference into orbit and present advances in platform and payload design.
Share this:
PDF file, 9 pages: £5.00 » ADD TO CART