IOTA: Compact Ion Clock for Precision Timing Applications
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Sussex
Department Name: Sch of Mathematical & Physical Sciences
Abstract
Atomic clocks have a wide range of applications from communication, navigation to trading and scientific research. Systems based on trapped atomic ions promise significantly improved accuracy compared to currently commercially available systems. Accuracies of 10-18 have been demonstrated with such systems in research labs. However, due to their complexity, power consumption and environmental requirements, these systems are far from portable. To generate an electronic reference signal optical atomic clocks contain an optical reference, a laser stabilised to an optical transition within an atomic species, and an optical frequency comb. The two research groups at the University of Sussex are developing demonstrators for a portable atomic reference system based on trapped calcium ions and a micro-comb system. This project aims to address two technological challenges within the two atomic clock subsystems. To improve the systems' compactness, robustness and weight, the two research groups join forces with MSquared Lasers, a leading company in optical technology development. In addition, the commercial exploitation of the atomic clock system will be explored with focus on system integrators.
Planned Impact
The aim of the project is to advance the commercialisation of a portable atomic clock system. There will be a direct economic impact as the work will lead to a commercial system which will be brought to market by the UK industry partner MSquared Lasers. Also sub-systems such as the laser system, the control electronics and the physics packages will be a great economic interest. To realise the economic potential, the project will include an exploitation plan. Beyond the direct focus on economic impact, the involved personal will obtain important training in the commercialisation of QT 2.0 technologies, training in the underlying physics and engineering. Educating the quantum technology professionals will be a key to the future economic success of quantum technologies in the UK.
Organisations
Publications
Bao H
(2019)
Laser cavity-soliton microcombs
in Nature Photonics
Bao H
(2019)
Laser Cavity-Soliton Micro-Combs
Jin L
(2020)
Optical multi-stability in a nonlinear high-order microring resonator filter
in APL Photonics
Rowley M
(2019)
Thermo-optical pulsing in a microresonator filtered fiber-laser: a route towards all-optical control and synchronization.
in Optics express
Description | Compact robust laser system for trapping calcium ions. |
Exploitation Route | This is an attractive system for ion trap groups and an essential component for portable atomic clocks. |
Sectors | Aerospace Defence and Marine Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software) Education Energy Financial Services and Management Consultancy Manufacturing including Industrial Biotechology Transport |
Description | Invited conference presentation at IPR18 |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Invited presentation at IPR18 |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
Description | Presentation at EFTF |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Presentation at EFTF |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |