Quantum-limited sensors based on atom interferometry
Abstract
The performer will study the basic physical limits and capabilities of gravimetric and inertial sensors based on atom interferometry. Recent advances in this field open the possibility of a new generation of very high accuracy sensors with unprecedented capabilities for navigation and gravimetry. The proposed basic research will provide new tests of the validity of fundamental physical laws at the intersection of quantum mechanics and gravitational physics. Over the three year performance period of this grant, the performer expects to realize a factor of 100 improvement over current state-of-the-art sensors by employing quantum metrology methods (based on entangled atomic sources) and large momentum transfer atom optics. Sensor operation will be verified through measurements of the gravitational anomaly associated with laboratory mass distributions and through gyrocompass measurements of the Earth’s rotation rate. Ojective: Validate fundamental physical laws at the intersection of quantum mechanics and gravitational physics. Verify sensor operation through measurements of the gravitational anomaly associated with laboratory mass distributions and through gyrocompass measurements of the Earth’s rotation rate. Naval Relevance: The proposed methods will extend the state-of-the-art in numerous related inertial measurement categories by factors of 10 to 100, including accelerometry, gyroscopy, and wavefront sensing. For example, it will likely result in the demonstration of the gyroscope with an angle random walk below 1 microdeg/hr1/2 and a gravity gradiometer of sensitivity 0.001 E/Hz1/2. Gyroscopes and gravity gradiometers can be used for high accuracy navigation in GPS denied environments. Gravity gradiometers can be used to detect gravitation anomalies from moving platforms. The spin-squeezing methods to be developed are also capable of improving the performance of atomic clocks. The ground-based demonstrations will provide engineering inputs to the design of possible future space instruments. For example, this work will lay the foundation for a space-based gravity gradiometer with sensitivity of below 1e-4 E/Hz1/2. This sensitivity level is considered enabling for next generation satellite geodesy missions [15]. A future instrument of this sensitivity would be able to discern regional changes in the Earth’s mass distribution resulting from, for example, melting of the Greenland ice sheet [16, 17]. It could monitor water table heights at the ~1 cm level.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2016
- Source ID
- N000141512172
Entities
People
- Mark Kasevich
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Stanford University
- United States Navy