Compact Versatile Laser System for Rb BECs

AOSense has successfully designed and fabricated numerous laser systems for applications ranging from a rubidium Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) apparatus to ultracold cesium and rubidium atom trapping. This SBIR topic is well-matched to our experience in designing integrated, rugged laser systems for atom-optic sensors. We propose to design and develop a compact, versatile optical system for rubidium BEC experiments that incorporates several novel concepts. The innovative technical features of the proposed laser system in this program relative to existing state-of-the-art include: (1) reduced total size of the integrated laser system, including control electronics and power supply, (2) improved frequency stability, (3) reduced operational complexity, (4) enhanced frequency agility and (5) increased immunity against mechanical vibrations and temperature fluctuations. In addition to highly detailed system and component level designs, we will perform design validation studies to ensure that the required performance specifications are met.