document title / titre du document TRP W ORK PLAN ... - emits - ESA

TRP Work Plan 2005-2007
Description of Activities
TEC-SB/7935/dc
12/Feb/09
TRP Reference:
Title:
T504-16MM
Development of key Optical Clock technologies
The development of a full optical clock has important bearing on Space Science, Navigation, Earth Science, Secure
Communications, etc. Optical clocks in space are considered essential tools for the exploration the limits of contemporary
phyics (e.g. general relativity). They would allow, for example, the direct observation of Gravitational waves, direct
measurement of fundamental physics constants, redefinition of the second, etc; or provide highly accurate long-term (days or
more) time referencing as needed for precise positioning and navigation (future Galileo satellites). Despite the various
world-wide effort going into optical clocks for ground applications, no yet any serious effort has been initiated into the
definition and development of a space-compatible optical clock. The activity here proposed will address the critical technology
of the basic components of an optical clock (clock laser, atom/ion/molecule cooling unit, laser trapping unit, detection and
measurement unit) with the aim of identifying a design suitable for space. Environmental aspects, as well as critical design
and qualification issues will be addressed. The output of this actvity will be a breadbord of critical parts of an optical clock
capable to prove the feasibility of optical clock in space.
Deliverables:
Breadboard
Current TRL: TRL1 Target TRL: TRL2-3 Application Need/Date: TRL5 by 2012
Space Science, Navigation, Earth
Application/Mission: Contract Duration: 18 months
Science, Secure Communications, etc.
SW Clause : - Dossier0 Ref.: T-8043
Consistency with Harmonisation
Freq. & Time Generation - Space
Roadmap and Conclusions:
Page 113 of 227