Description
Many quantum optics experiment, including but not limited to large-baseline atom interferometers, require a mechanically robust optical distribution system. Particularly for space-based missions, such as MAGIS Space or AEDGE, compactness also plays a crucial role.
We have developed an optical bench technology that is both compact and exhibits a high mechanical stability when exposed to mechanical loads and temperature fluctuations. Benches made using this toolkit have a proven track-record of many successful sounding rocket missions, such as the MAIUS cold-atom missions.
It will further be employed for the upcoming NASA-DLR BECCAL mission, a multi-user experimental facility aboard the ISS, which, among other things, will be able to perform atom interferometry along two separate axes, and can serve as a technological pathfinder to demonstrate major experimental and technological capabilities. For BECCAL, we have improved upon our toolkit, which includes an increase in functional density and an expansion to new wavelengths. We have constructed multiple prototypes that have undergone rigorous testing to assess technological readiness.
Our work is supported by the German Space Agency DLR with funds provided by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) under grant number 50 WP 1433, 50 WP 1703 and 50 WP 2103.
