PHARAO Laser Source Flight Model: Design and Performances

TL;DR

This paper details the design, technology, and qualification results of the PHARAO laser source flight model, a compact, low-power laser system for space-based cold atom manipulation in a cesium clock.

Contribution

It introduces the first remote-controlled laser system specifically designed for spaceborne cold atom experiments, addressing space constraints and operational requirements.

Findings

Successful qualification of the laser source in operational conditions

Verification of laser characteristics impacting clock performance

Demonstration of space compatibility and remote control capabilities

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the design and the main performances of the PHARAO laser source flight model. PHARAO is a laser cooled cesium clock specially designed for operation in space and the laser source is one of the main sub-systems. The flight model presented in this work is the first remote-controlled laser system designed for spaceborne cold atom manipulation. The main challenges arise from mechanical compatibility with space constraints, which impose a high level of compactness, a low electric power consumption, a wide range of operating temperature and a vacuum environment. We describe the main functions of the laser source and give an overview of the main technologies developed for this instrument. We present some results of the qualification process. The characteristics of the laser source flight model, and their impact on the clock performances, have been verified in operational conditions.