← Back to NASA Technology Projects

Time Inter-Comparison Using Transportable Optical Combs

Completed TRL 4 (started at 3, targeting 4)

Description

AOSense proposes a free-space, two-way optical time transfer system compatible with global-scale synchronization of current-generation optical atomic clocks. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the requisite performance using existing hardware coupled with off-the-shelf control electronics. Based on our results, we will design a fully-integrated module capable of disseminating timing signals with sub-femtosecond error from 1-10,000 s. Such a system would improve ground-to-satellite synchronization a million-fold over current RF-based time transfer systems.

Benefits

Optical atomic clocks; clock based geodesy; very long baseline interferometry; test of general relativity; deep-space navigation; coherent LIDAR

Ultra low-phase noise microwave generation; High resolution coherent radar; communication systems insensitive to jamming; extended mission duration in GPS-denied environments

Details

Technology areaGN&C > Navigation Technologies > Navigation Sensors
ProgramSmall Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR)
Lead organizationAOSense, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA
Start date2016-06-10
End date2016-12-09

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — 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.