Cold Atom Systems for Deployable Quantum Inertial Navigation and Gravitational Sensing

Precise inertial measurement units (IMUs) with alternative navigation solutions are becoming increasingly important in GPS-denied environments. Light-pulse atom interferometer (LPAI) technology provides high-performance quantum IMUs with potential gravity-aided navigation capabilities, enabling them to surpass the performance of classical-physics-based IMUs. To miniaturize and ruggedize LPAI technology for sensor deployment, we are exploring several avenues: miniaturization and ruggedization of the sensor head and laser system, high data rate atom interferometry, time-multiplexed multi-axis sensing capability, quantum-classical sensor fusion, and performance enhancement through advanced schemes without sacrificing data rate. In this poster, we present our progress toward these objectives: (1) demonstrating a compact high data rate grating-magneto optical trap (GMOT) LPAI, (2) developing photonic integrated circuit (PIC) laser subsystem components and testing them for LPAI demonstrations, (3) demonstrating time-multiplexed three-axis acceleration sensing using high data-rate LPAI operation, and (4) showcasing on-going efforts in Raman sideband cooling with a GMOT and high momentum transfer. Our work will accelerate the development of deployable quantum inertial navigation and gravitational sensing systems.