New laser research funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is poised to revolutionize atomic clock technology, enabling the development of more accurate timekeeping devices.
The current most precise atomic clocks experience a tiny drift that limits their functionality over extended periods. By combining Japanese laser research with Sandia Labs’ work on barium, scientists are creating a new generation of ultra-accurate timekeeping devices.
Sandia National Laboratories scientist Dan Thrasher leads the project, which aims to develop a compact, low-power atomic clock using barium, an element last used in atomic clocks in 1985. This innovation will improve timing accuracy for volume-constrained platforms like spacecraft and vehicles that lack constant access to global navigation satellite systems.
Thrasher initially explored using ytterbium instead of barium but discovered Nichia’s promising new laser research while studying papers. Nichia’s violent-blue laser, designed for displaying visual information in smart glasses, was incompatible with ytterbium but compatible with barium and ideal for use in CSAC designs.
The collaboration between Sandia and Nichia has led to significant breakthroughs. In June, Thrasher successfully detected barium ions with the laser, a feat not achieved since the Chip Scale Atomic Clock (CSAC) operates on neutral ions. This achievement paves the way for the construction of a new atomic clock using this technology.
The successful ion detection also points toward future use of the Nichia laser in quantum computing, which relies on ion detection. Developing a commercial clock may have additional benefits, including increased grid stability and longer research missions.
Ryan Whalen is a science and technology writer for The Debrief.
Source: https://thedebrief.org/darpa-funded-laser-research-program-may-lead-to-new-atomic-clock-breakthrough/