ACES (Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space) Mission Status and Outlook

Paper number

IAC-11,A2,1,4,x11854

Author

Mr. Marc Peter Hess, Astrium Space Transportation, Germany

Coauthor

Mr. Bernd Hummelsberger, Astrium GmbH, Germany

Coauthor

Mr. Karl Hausner, Astrium GmbH, Germany

Coauthor

Mr. Rosario Nasca, European Space Agency (ESA), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Luigi Cacciapuoti, European Space Agency (ESA), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Rudolf Much, European Space Agency (ESA), The Netherlands

Coauthor

Mr. Wolfgang Schäfer, Timetech GmbH, Germany

Coauthor

Mr. Pascal Rochat, SpectraTime, Switzerland

Coauthor

Mr. Didier Goujon, SpectraTime, Switzerland

Coauthor

Dr. Christoph Pütz, Astrium GmbH, Germany

Year

2011

Abstract

Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES) is an ESA mission in fundamental physics based on a new generation of clocks operated in the microgravity environment of the International Space Station.
Installed at the external payload facility of the Columbus module, ACES will accommodate two atomic clocks: PHARAO, a primary frequency standard based on samples of laser cooled Cs atoms, and the active H-maser SHM. The two on-board clocks will generate a time scale with fractional frequency instability and inaccuracy of a few parts in 10\Large 16\small . The ACES frequency reference will be distributed to ground by a MicroWave Link (MWL) and used to compare distant clocks. These comparisons will allow precision tests of Einstein’s theory of general relativity, including a measurement of the gravitational red-shift, a search for time variations of fundamental constants, and tests of the Standard Model Extension. ACES will also support applications in different areas of research, including geodesy and GNSS remote sensing. A link in the optical domain is also part of ACES for time transfer experiments, ranging, and analysis of atmospheric propagation delays.
The flight models are presently under manufacturing, end-to-end testing of the prototype SHM and MWL is planned for the first half of 2011. Mission concept, scientific objectives, and status of ACES will be presented together with the latest test results.

Abstract document

IAC-11,A2,1,4,x11854.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-11,A2,1,4,x11854.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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