Low SWaP UHV chamber for atom interferometer

The development and maturation towards space applications of atomic systems are needed to meet NASArsquo;s interest in advancing quantum sensing technologies. Atom interferometers have unmatched precision for in-situ measurements of local gravity acceleration. The Size, Weight, and Power consumption (SWaP) of existing atom interferometers is a major obstacle for employing them in NASA missions. One of the main components of an atom interferometer is an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) system. UHV systems are typically the heaviest components of atom interferometers. A light, compact, and energy-efficient UHV system will be highly beneficial for NASA missions.nbsp;Q-Peak is addressing the need for lighter, compact, energy-efficient UHV systems suitable for an atom interferometer. Within a successful Phase I program, Q-Peak experimentally proved the suitability of the Aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) as housing material for the UHV chamber. Aluminum alloy (AlSi10Mg) housing is capable of maintaining residual gas pressure well below 5times;10-10 Torr. The AlSi10Mg alloy is 30% lighter than stainless steel.nbsp;Q-Peak proposes to build a complete UHV chamber suitable for atom interferometry out of the AlSi10Mg alloy. The ability to machine AlSi10Mg using a 3D printing process removes the constraint of traditional manufacturing considerations that can further decrease the SWaP of the UHV system. Special attention will be devoted to the development of an energy-efficient and reliable alkali-atom source.