Compact, configurable laser systems for deployable quantum applications

With the inherent precision, sensitivity, and traceability afforded by the atomic systems at their heart, advanced quantum sensors are poised to become integral parts of otherwise quotidian platforms. The full potential of state-of-the-art atomic clocks, magnetometers, electric field sensors, and inertial sensors will be realized when these technologies are advanced from their development in research labs to deployment in field applications on moving platforms. The size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) of required laser systems must be reduced, and robustness to environmental perturbations must be improved, in order to meet the challenging requirements of deployed applications. Vescent Photonics, being a lead manufacturer of systems for deployable quantum, is actively developing modular laser and control systems that are not currently available on the market. Requirements for optical frequency combs, MOT and Raman lasers, and ultranarrow linewidth lasers will be reviewed for performance in both laboratory and harsh environments. Vescent has developed these systems for fielded next-generation quantum applications, such as cold atom microwave and optical atomic clocks that are intended as improvements to existing GPS timing systems. Requirements for frequency instability, optical power, relative intensity noise, and overall power consumption will be reviewed. Discussions on the impact that these laser systems would have on real-world quantum applications will be estimated.