Zn:MgO:PPLN Waveguides for Rb Cold Atom Trap Based Quantum Gravitometry in a CubeSat

Abstract

Satellite based experiments require laser systems that are compact and efficient, which are robust against vibration, radiation and thermal cycling. Supported by Innovate UK's Quantum Technology ‘Cold Atom Space PAyload (CASPA)‘ project we have fabricated PPLN (Periodically Poled Lithium Niobate) ridge waveguides to act as efficient frequency converters for rubidium atom cooling via second harmonic generation (SHG) of telecoms lasers. CASPA is a technology demonstrator for magneto-optical cooling within a micro CubeSat laying the foundations for novel gravitometry and global positioning techniques [1].