Frequency stabilized ND:YAG laser for space applications

Abstract

Future space missions rely on the availability of space qualified high precision optical metrology instruments like ultra stable laser sources. Here, we present a compact, frequency-doubled, monolithic Nd:YAG laser (non planar ring-oscillator, NPRO), frequency stabilized to a hyperfine transition in molecular iodine, based on the method of modulation transfer spectroscopy. Using a 10 cm long iodine cell cooled to 1±C and a total light power of ~ 5 mW a frequency stability of 1 • 10-12 for an integration time of τ = 1 s and 3 • 10-13 for τ 5000 s. This setup therefore fulfillls the basic metrological requirements for the LISA and Darwin missions (with potential beyond). Due to very compact construction, it serves as a study and demonstrator for a future space qualified iodine standard.