Miniature Laser System for Cs Atom Interferometer

The objectives of Phase II of this SBIR project are to design, assemble, test and demonstrate a complete fiber based laser system satisfying the specified requirements of NASAs proposed Space-based Quantum Gravity Gradiometer. The laser systems will be comprised of two frequency stabilized ultra-narrow linewidth lasers, combined with an optical amplifier in one package, with a PM fiber output. The fiber coupled laser system will have the following performance parameters: Linewidth 1 kHz Wavelength corresponds to Cs D lines (852 nm and 894 nm) 300 mW output power Volume of optical module under 500 c.c. (not including driving electronics) Total power consumption for the entire system under 10 W Modulation frequency up to 10 MHz A roadmap to achieving system lifetime over 50,000 hours. Within the scope of the Phase II effort, OEwaves will: Develop a physical model and design the optimal optical and mechanical package for the laser system prototype. Perform extensive analytical and numerical study of the proposed design including the thermos-opto-mechanical evaluation of the entire system. Fabricate resonators with optimal morphology and optimal host material to achieve the target performance for linewidth, and for frequency stability greater than 10-14. Prepare Phase II Final Report. Delivera complete system for a Cs based QGG, meeting the specified performance parameters. The properties of the system will be measured and validated by a NASA customer. Quantum sensors such as quantum gravity gradiometers and atomic clocks hold the potential to significantly increase the ability for realization of new scientific findings, as well as technological capabilities.  This is the result of the appreciable increase in performance parameters that quantum sensors produce as compared to their classical counterparts.  The challenge for developing laser systems for both ground and space application of quantum experiments arises from the difficulty in meeting the required performance parameters in a small SWaP and with high reliability of performance that is crucial for space platforms.  The subject of this Phase II SBIR proposal is addressing the above-mentioned challenges for development of a laser system suitable for supporting NASA’s current and future quantum-based science and sensors.  OEwaves, Inc. completed a Phase I investigation for design, evaluation and demonstration of elements required for a particular quantum sensor under development for NASA, namely the Space-based Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG). 3.1 Objectives of the Phase II effort. The objectives of Phase II of this SBIR project are to design, assemble, test and demonstrate a complete fiber based laser system satisfying the specified requirements of NASA’s proposed Space-based Quantum Gravity Gradiometer.  The laser systems will be comprised of two frequency stabilized ultra-narrow linewidth lasers, combined with an optical amplifier in one package, with a PM fiber output.  The fiber coupled laser system will have the following performance parameters: Linewidth <1 kHz Wavelength corresponds to Cs D lines (852 nm and 894 nm) 300 mW output power after the SOA (Tapered Amplifier) Volume of optical module under 500 c.c. (not including driving electronics) Total power consumption for the entire system under 10 W Modulation frequency up to 10 MHz A roadmap to achieving system lifetime over 50,000 hours.   3.2 Deliverables Phase II deliverables include: A complete laser system for a Cs based QGG, meeting the specified performance parameters. The performance of the system will be measured and validated by a NASA customer. Monthly and quarterly reports including results from the analytical and simulation studies as well as laboratory test data, A final report presenting the achievements in Phase II.

The proposed technology is suitable for designing quantum sensors being considered for NASA missions, such as the Space Quantum Gravity Gradiometer. Low noise lasers, which are part of the system proposed here, are also being considered for advanced optical communications systems being developed at NASA, also missions such as LISA will benefit from what the lasers offer.  Finally, NASA is developing quantum key distribution systems, which will also benefit from the low noise performance, small SWaP and rugged packaging of lasers proposed here. The most adjacent segment is the general area of quantum technology.  80 companies worldwide are developing quantum computing, quantum sensor, quantum communication and quantum network systems for commercialization.  The advent of advanced optical communication systems such as 6G, satellite systems and Artificial Intelligence are yet other areas that require high performance, low noise lasers. 

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.