Gradiometric Atomic Magnetometer for Mobile Applications (GAMMA)

AOSense proposes to develop an ultra-sensitive atomic magnetic gradiometer for real-world applications.The device will be capable of operating in environments where the ambient magnetic field is unknown and varying both in magnitude and direction. The GAMMA sensor will have a unique combination of gradiometric sensitivity (200 Hz), and compact form factor suited for future miniaturization. The gradiometer design will minimize systematic measurement errors such as heading error and light shifts; this will enable accurate cancellation of common-mode fields during operation on a dynamic platform. Potential applications of this magnetic gradiometer include measurement of biomagnetic fields in unshielded environments, ground-based detection of nearby magnetic anomalies such as unexploded ordnance, induction-based sensing of metallic objects, vehicle navigation, and automated perimeter monitoring.