Integrated Optics Precision Orbital Accelerometer

In this proposal, we present the design of an Integrated Optics Microaccelerometer (IOuA) to measure drag and neutral winds. The proposed IOuA is based on an integrated optics glass-on-silicon waveguide architecture, hence it presents a rugged, compact alternative to other technologies. It is a completely passive interferometer device, with no moving parts. The distinct advantage of the IOuA over piezo and silicon micromachined components is that it can survive high G forces during a satellite launch phase, yet requires no calibration on-orbit. It is potentially much more sensitive than micromachined components, with a wider dynamic range. Its signal processing is trivial in that it requires no crystal oscilator. The key innovation here is the development of a low cost, mass-producible integrated optics sensor which can perform on-orbit with a minimum of weight, size, and power requirements. The outcome of Phase I will be a set of design specifications for the construction, in Phase II, of a space qualified prototype IOuA, based on our experience with the integrated optics accelerometers and gyroscopes we are developing for medical, navigation, and automotive applications.