Optimized frequency-stabilization subsystem for a compact Rydberg laser package

The overall objective of this Phase II RD effort is to implement the optimized absolute frequency-stabilization methods tested and validated in Phase I to advance an integrated frequency-stabilization subsystem and upgrade a compact Rydberg laser package prototype for performance testing and demonstration at JPL NASA towards deployed QRR. The prototype will incorporate a ruggedized Rydberg laser that is wavelength tunable to access RF transitions at S-band and K-band with absolute frequency stability at the 100-kHz level (threshold) or 10kHz level (goal) for operation under typical vibration conditions in suborbital flight. In the Phase II effort, integrated optical atomic reference packages will be fabricated and integrated with the laser system, and stabilization electronics optimized to frequency-stabilization performance targets under target vibration conditions. Hardware upgrades of the frequency-stabilized Rydberg laser system will be implemented for automatic power optimization and leveling during wavelength tuning operations over nanometers to target RF resonances from S-band to K-band transition. The effort includes the development of actuated all-axis micro-optic couplers for on-board auto-alignment into diode and laser stages; a micro- laser with an upgraded wavelength tuner and opto-mechanical microcavity design will be evaluated and developed for robustness under DC-8 vibration environments and mitigate risk of optical beam alignment changes arising from general wear and tear in operation. A universal multi-color adaptor for plug-and-play use of sensors and probes with the prototype will be developed for demonstrations. Quantum radiofrequency (RF) and radar receivers based on Rydberg atoms exploit the unique properties and sensitivity of Rydberg atoms to electric fields over a wide RF range spanning static fields to millimeter wave fields, and even higher frequencies.  The proposed effort is to develop robust, frequency stabilized Rydberg laser systems that are needed for deployment of a Quantum Rydberg Radar (QRR) system for remote sensing for Earth and space-based science missions in Surface Topography and Vegetation (STV). QRR will be (1) compatible with small-form factor CubeSat, (2) requires no transmitter, (3) provides ultra-broad-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery from S-to-K bands, and (4) enables interferometric-SAR measurements with a vertical accuracy of centimeters-to-decimeters through vertical profiles of multiple science disciplines. A robust, frequency stabilized Rydberg laser package will have application in a number of markets including communications, medical imaging, and semiconductor inspection.. The overall objective of this Phase II effort is to implement the optimized absolute frequency-stabilization methods tested and validated in Phase I to advance an integrated frequency-stabilization subsystem and upgrade a compact Rydberg dual-laser package prototype for performance testing and demonstration at JPL NASA towards deployed QRR.  The prototype will incorporate a ruggedized coupler laser that is wavelength tunable to access RF transitions at S-band and K-band with absolute frequency stability at the 100-kHz level (threshold) or 10kHz level (goal) for operation under typical vibration conditions in suborbital flight.  During the performance of this work we will:   1) Develop an upgraded 852nm laser-frequency stabilization to <100kHz in suborbital DC-8 flight conditions.   2) Develop 510nm laser-frequency stabilization to <100kHz in suborbital DC-8 flight conditions.   3) Create a system for autonomous 1020nm/510nm, laser power leveling and regulation. 4) Design and implement a micro-integrated wide-band tunable 1020 nm laser. 5) Incorporate updated capabilities into a prototype system and deliver the system for evaluation under DC-8 suborbital flight environmental conditions. The deliverables include quarterly technical reports, prototype vibration testing at our facilities, and joint prototype evaluation testing with JPL.

The specific R&D conducted under the proposed Phase II work aim to advance JPL’s Quantum Rydberg Radar (QRR) effort. QRR based on Rydberg atom sensing is targeted to advance capabilities in remote sensing for Earth and space-based science missions in Surface Topography and Vegetation (STV) with a disruptive option for a small, low-cost architecture that can enable ultra-broad-band imaging to cover different observables and penetration depths that can be dynamically tuned to focus on certain bands of interest. The proposed Phase II effort is aimed at creating a robust, frequency-stabilized Rydberg laser package for Rydberg atom quantum sensing. Rydberg atom sensing has potential application in RF markets including test and measurement, DoD, aerospace, and commercial communications, THz imaging, and semiconductor inspection. 

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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.