A quantum-classical cold atom system for inertial navigation

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

Abstract

A cold atom system for an inertial navigation system (INS) demonstrator utilising atom interferometry is presented. Laser-cooled rubidium-87 atoms in a grating magneto-optical trap (gMOT) are used to measure acceleration along a single axis. This system demonstrates a novel technique in quantum-enabled navigation which could offer significant improvement in precision and reduction in the drift present in classical INSs. Ruggedised lasers and control electronics allow potential deployment in maritime navigation in global navigation satellite system (GNSS) denied environments. Considerations are made towards a pathway for modular expansion and development of the system to 6-axis operation.
Original languageEnglish
Article number1339205
JournalProceedings of SPIE: The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume13392
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 9 Apr 2025
EventSPIE Quantum West 2025 - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 28 Jan 202529 Jan 2025

Funding

This work was supported by Innovate UK 10072054.

Keywords

  • Atom interferometry
  • Quantum navigation
  • INS
  • PNT
  • Photonics
  • Optics
  • Laser cooling
  • Quantum sensors

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