Zerodur based optical systems for quantum gas experiments in space

Paper number

IAC-18,A2,1,8,x44813

Author

Mr. Moritz Mihm, Germany, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz

Coauthor

Mr. Jean Pierre Marburger, Germany, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz

Coauthor

Dr. Andrè Wenzlawski, Germany

Coauthor

Dr. Ortwin Hellmig, Germany, University of Hamburg

Coauthor

Mr. Oliver Anton, Germany

Coauthor

Mr. Klaus Döringshoff, Germany, Humboldt University of Berlin

Coauthor

Dr. Markus Krutzik, Germany, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Coauthor

Prof. Achim Peters, Germany, Humboldt University of Berlin

Coauthor

Prof. Patrick Windpassinger, Germany, Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz

Coauthor

Mr. MAIUS Team, Germany

Year

2018

Abstract

Numerous quantum technologies make use of a microgravity environment e.g. in space. Operating in this extreme environment makes high demands on the experiment and especially the laser system regarding miniaturization and power consumption as well as mechanical and thermal stability. In our systems, optical modules consisting of Zerodur based optical benches with free-space optics are combined with fiber components. Suitability of the technology has been demonstrated in the successful sounding rocket missions FOKUS, KALEXUS and MAIUS-1.

Here, we report on our toolkit for stable optical benches including mounts, fixed and adjustable mirrors as well as polarization maintaining fiber collimators and couplers made from Zerodur [H. Duncker et al., Applied Optics 53, 4468-4474 (2014)]. As an example, we present the optical modules for the scientific rocket payload of MAIUS-2, a quantum gas experiment performing dual-species atom interferometry with Bose-Einstein condensates. The modules are used on the one hand to stabilize the laser frequencies and on the other hand to distribute, overlap and switch the laser beams. This includes the overlap and joint fiber coupling of beams at 767\,nm and 780\,nm in the same polarization state to cool and manipulate atoms of both species simultaneously.

Future projects include the development of a platform for experiments with cold atoms onboard the International Space Station. The laser system again involves Zerodur based optical benches in conjunction with fiber optical components. The experiment is planned as multi-user facility and currently in the design phase. The next step is to build the training, test and flight hardware.

Our work is supported by the German Space Agency DLR with funds provided by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) under grant numbers 50 WP 1433 and 50 WP 1703.

Abstract document

IAC-18,A2,1,8,x44813.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-18,A2,1,8,x44813.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.