Cold Atom Gravity Gradiometer for Geodesy

The Cold Atom Gravity Gradiometer for Geodesy Project objectives are: Design, construct and test a sensitive, low-drift gravity gradiometer instrument aimed at improving satellite geodesy measurements. Develop instrument based on light-pulse atom interferometry using ultra cold atomic samples as ideal proof masses. Resolution goal when extrapolated to microgravity environment is 10-5 Eotvos per measurement at 0.03 Hz repetition rate. Sensitivity better than previous development with acceleration sensitivity at 1.5 x 10-9 m/s2/Hz1/2 Design, construct and test a sensitive, low-drift gravity gradiometer instrument aimed at improving satellite geodesy measurements. Develop instrument based on light-pulse atom interferometry using ultracold atomic samples as ideal proof masses. Resolution goal when extrapolated to microgravity environment is 10-5 Eotvos per measurement at 0.03 Hz repetition rate. Sensitivity better than previous development with acceleration sensitivity at 1.5 x 10-9 m/s2/Hz1/2 More »