Compact, Long-Lifetime Atom Source for Space (CLASS)

The goal of CLASS is to develop a compact, low power, long-lifetime cold atom source for inertial sensors and clocks. CLASS will be designed to produce high cold atom fluxes over a temperature range suitable for commercial- and space-grade atomic devices. Projected loading rates are sufficient to support state-of-the-art atomic sensor performance. In Phase I, Vector Atomic will design the full CLASS vacuum package, which consists of an atomic source, MOT cooling optics, and electrical and optical feedthroughs. The CLASS design will be validated and de-risked by building and testing the prototype atomic source.

High spatial and temporal resolution mapping of Earth’s gravity to determine changes in polar ice sheets and sea level; Deep space navigation using on-board IMUs or one-way time transfer with precise onboard clocks; Direct measurement and correction of satellite ephemeris errors to eliminate costly ranging and updates from ground stations; space-based atomic gravitational wave detectors; and high resolution radar imaging using a coherent constellation of small-aperture CubeSats.

GPS is an essential asset that underpins much of our modern infrastructure. Transportation, telecommunications, and financial sectors are now fundamentally reliant on GPS for accurate location and timing services. Similarly, the US military is critically dependent on GPS for everything from dismounted soldier missions, to guided munitions, to navigating nuclear submarines.

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.