Portable High-Flux Cold Atom Source Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-079 Topic Title: Portable High-Flux Cold Atom Source Proposal No.: N091-079-1572 Firm: AOSense, Inc. 767 N Mary Ave Sunnyvale, California 94085-2909 Contact: Michael Matthews Phone: (408) 735-9500 Web Site: www.aosense.com Abstract: We propose to develop a compact and rugged source of cold atoms for atom-based sensors. Our proposal encompasses the laser system, vacuum cell, and electronics required to achieve micro-Kelvin temperatures for 10^8 atoms with a repetition rate faster than 500 ms. We will run simulations and construct 3D models to minimize the size and cost of the vacuum and laser system. Part of the objective is to test alternative methods of maintaining low vacuum, significantly reducing cost. An additional objective is to construct a specialized laser system for less cost than commercial systems. Phase I will focus on demonstrating a simplified vacuum system and laser system, with the option period devoted to demonstrating the cold atom source. Benefits: Currently, a modest fraction of the time and cost involved in designing, building and maintaining an atom optic sensor is invested in the atom source. Several of the innovations from academic and government settings can be made robust and compact to alleviate this investment. An inexpensive cold atom source would help increase the market penetration of atom optic sensors and enable faster R&D of new sensors. These include frequency standards, gyroscopes and accelerometers for inertial navigation, and gravimeters and gravity gradiometers for mineral and geophysical exploration. Return