Quantum navigation with multi-axis atomic interferometry and hybrid

Atomic interferometers use the interference of cold or ultra-cold matter waves and are a promising tool for high-precision inertial sensors. The principle of freedom from drift of such sensors is an interesting property for autonomous navigation. In this context, a compact geometry of differential atomic interferometers to differentiate between accelerations and rotation rates is demonstrated and a concept for a compact six-axis sensor is presented [1]. It is based on our experimental studies on atom-chip-based interferometry [2] in combination with atom-chip sources for a high flux of condensed atoms [3]. Hybrid approaches that implement a fusion with classic sensors can remove the limitations of previous quantum sensors in terms of data rate and bandwidth [4].

So far, various components of quantum navigation based on laboratory systems have been demonstrated and their application tested in controlled environments. Current projects and proposals aim to qualify the first sensors for field use. They rely on either commercially available sub-systems or, in some cases, custom-made products and integrate them into laboratory environments. We hereby present our preliminary system design with Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) of 87Rb atoms for a transportable demonstrator aiming at a multi-axis inertial sensor, for the precise measurement of accelerations and rotation.

 

We acknowledge financial support from the Deutsche Forschungs-gemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) under Germany’s Excellence Strategy - EXC-2123 QuantumFrontiers - 390837967 and through the CRC 1227 (DQ-mat), as well as support from DLR with funds provided by the BMWi under grant no. DLR 50RK1957 (QGyro) and DLR 50NA2106 (QGyro+).

 

[1] M. Gersemann, et al. Eur. Phys. J. D, 74 10 203, 2020

[2] S. Abend et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 203003, 2016

[3] J. Rudolph et al., New J. Phys. 17, 065001, 2015.

[4] L.L. Richardson, et al. Commun. Phys. 3, 208, 2020