Atom Interferometry In Dynamic Environments

Atom interferometry is a powerful tool for precision metrology. To realize its technological potential outside the laboratory, methods must be developed for operating atom interferometers in adversely dynamic environments and within constraints of reduced size, weight, and power. Raman pulse atom interferometry can be applied to compact atomic clocks, and as an optical interrogation modality, it affords a means of dispensing with antennas and cavities employed in direct microwave interrogation, affording a corresponding reduction in size and complexity. We will describe Raman light pulse atom beamsplitter technology intended for use in dynamic environments and in physically compact sensors, with emphasis on our application of adiabatic rapid passage (ARP) to timekeeping and large momentum transfer (LMT) inertial sensing. We present a new timekeeping method, applicable to compact devices in dynamic environments, based on adiabatic rapid passage (ARP) in Raman light pulse atom interferometry, and describe experimental demonstrations of reduced sensitivity to optical beam power variations and other systematic effects. We will also present new results pertaining to Raman atom interferometry inertial sensing, that demonstrate increased sensitivity using Large Momentum Transfer based on ARP techniques. We demonstrate high contrast atomic interference with momentum transfer as high as 30 (h) over bark using 9 mu K atom clouds. The ability to use such relatively hot atoms will enable operation at high repetition rates for both maximal sensor bandwidth and increased sensitivity.