All-optical Magnetometer for Extreme Low-Temperature Environments using Nitrogen-Vacancy Center in Diamonds

This proposal outlines the development of a quantum magnetometer based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamonds. The magnetometer is designed for use in extreme space environments, including those with high radiation levels and temperatures as low as -240°C, without the need for protective housing. Leveraging the quantum properties of NV centers, this technology offers a compact, low power consumption solution with pT Hz -1/2 sensitivity. The technology is motivated by the need for instruments capable of operating under the harsh conditions of space exploration, such as on icy moons like Ganymede, which exhibits unique magnetic phenomena. Traditional magnetometers, such as fluxgates and atomic gas magnetometers, are limited by their size, power requirements, and need for continuous calibration, making them unsuitable for deployment on smaller spacecraft or in conditions requiring high precision without environmental protection. The proposed NV center-based quantum magnetometer addresses these limitations by utilizing the atomic-scale defects in diamonds, which offer absolute field sensitivity, operational stability across a broad temperature range, and resilience to radiation deterioration. The device employs an all-optical readout for magnetic field detection and dynamical decoupling pulse sequences to achieve longer T2 coherence times, allowing both AC and DC sensing. Phase I will inclue optimization the proposed quantum magnetometer through simulation tools and microscopic modeling to analyze noise, along with CAD development for the device prototype, which will be fabricated and testing under simulated extreme conditions in the subsequent phase. The proposed innovation will provide a robust, efficient, and precise instrument for in-situ measurements on long-term explorative missions.