Low-Cost Total Field Magnetometer based on Optically-Pumped Alkali Atoms

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to design, fabricate, and deliver two fully operational prototype total field scalar magnetometers with size, weight, and power specifications consistent with anti-submarine warfare (ASW) applications. The Phase II development program will extend the successful Phase I laboratory proof of concept to combine optical pumping of alkali atoms with sensitive absorption measurements and frequency counting electronics. The resulting system will include a compact, lightweight measurement head with low-power control electronics to produce an instrument suitable for use on remote platforms requiring low cost and complexity. PSI has extensive experience applying its successful line of commercial absorption spectroscopy hardware and software to demonstrate sensitive magnetometers. This expertise will be used to transition the technology to volume manufacturing in a subsequent Phase III development effort. The novel magnetometer will be ideally suited for use in a low-cost Magnetic Anomaly Detection (MAD) system for Navy ASW applications.