Miniature Laser System for Cs Atom Interferometer

OEwaves has entered Phase II of its SBIR project with NASA to design, build, and demonstrate a complete fiber-based laser system tailored for the agency’s proposed space-based Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG). This mission demands cutting-edge laser technology to achieve the extreme stability and precision required for detecting tiny variations in Earth’s gravitational field from orbit.

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The system under development integrates two frequency-stabilized, ultra-narrow linewidth lasers with an optical amplifier in a single compact package, delivering polarization-maintaining fiber output. Key performance specifications include:

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• Linewidth narrower than 1 kHz
• Wavelengths at the Cesium D lines (852 nm and 894 nm)
• Output power of 300 mW
• Optical module volume under 500 c.c. (excluding electronics)
• Total power consumption under 10 W
• Modulation frequencies up to 10 MHz
• Lifetime roadmap exceeding 50,000 hours

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Within this phase, OEwaves will:

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• Develop a physical model and design for the laser system’s optimal optical and mechanical package.
• Conduct extensive analytical and numerical studies, including thermo-opto-mechanical simulations.
• Fabricate ultra-high-Q resonators with optimized morphology and host materials to achieve the <1 kHz linewidth and frequency stability better than 10⁻¹⁴.
• Assemble and deliver a complete system prototype to NASA for validation against mission requirements.

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This project underscores OEwaves’ leadership in advancing ultra-stable, compact, and energy-efficient laser technologies. By enabling NASA’s QGG, these systems open the door to new levels of precision in gravitational sensing, supporting missions that enhance our understanding of Earth and the universe. Read about the project here.

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