High Performance Atomic Clocks for Space

"In response to the Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) program solicitation No. AF02-206, "High Performance Atomic Clocks for Space", Kernco, Inc. proposes the further investigation and realization of our new technology known as "PrestimulatedCoherent Population Trapping Rubidium Maser" (PCR-MaserTM). The PCR-MaserTM unit combines excellent short-term stability with superior aging and drift characteristics approaching those of the hydrogen maser.The PCR-MaserTM clock is based on the principles of Coherent Population Trapping (CPT), a quantum-mechanical process that allows coherent microwave emission without population inversion. Elimination of the need for an inversion of the hyperfine statepopulations enables the implementation of maser-like devices without threshold constraints, significantly simplifying both the design and reliability of the maser resonator. Prestimulated-CPT is a major refinement of the Kernco proven Coherent PopulationTrapping technology. Kernco's PCR-Maser provides excellent short-term stability with superior aging and drift characteristics over that of current GPS satellite clocks. Since there are no consumables, pumping systems or spectral lamps, the PCR-Maserallows longer lifetime with greater reliability.Furthurmore, the PCR-Maser can be fabricated in a compact form factor suitable for direct insertion into the current GPS spacecraft configurations."