Accelerometer for Space Applications Based on Light-Pulse Atom Interferometry

We propose to design a compact, high-precision, single-axis accelerometer based on atom interferometry that is applicable to operation in space environments. Our design will emphasize reliable operation and minimization of the acceleration noise floor, bias drifts and scale factor instability. Laser system reliability will be a major consideration in the design. The sensor design will be capable of demonstration and testing on a low-dynamics platform under earth gravity. Phase I will result in block diagrams and detailed 3D CAD models of the sensor head, laser system and electronic control system. We will validate the sensor design by developing error models taking into account variations in environmental parameters. Space-based inertial sensors based on atom interferometry are a compelling technology for both technological and scientific applications because of the exceptionally high performance that can be enabled by long interrogation times with cold atoms in a microgravity environment.

Inertial measurement units based on the proposed accelerometer technology will be applicable to space-based inertial navigation, including navigation around small bodies such as asteroids. Operating as a gravimeter, the proposed design can be used for Earth geoid measurement and gravity tomography of asteroids. An updated version capable of gravity gradiometry will be capable of gravity-compensation of inertial navigation systems, in addition to improved gravity mapping capabilities. The design serves as a demonstration of several technologies that are relevant for gravity wave detection. Extensions of the proposed design will ultimately enable gravity wave detection missions.

The design developed in Phase I will reach levels of acceleration sensitivity and low bias instability that are better than current state-of-the-art conventional absolute gravimeters based on free-fall measurements. Several commercial applications requiring earth-based gravimetry could therefore benefit from the sensor design. Seismic studies and geophysical exploration, including gravity mapping of prospective oil fields and mineral deposits, will benefit from the improved sensitivity of the Phase I design. Trades of sensor bandwidth versus sensitivity will enable the design to apply to inertial navigation on a variety of ground vehicle, sea-based and flying platforms.

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