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Small Ion Clock for Space Applications

John Prestage, CalTech/JPL

(Session : Thursday from )

Abstract. We review progress and plans for a small Hg ion clock for space operation. The technology is based on an ion-clock physics package where Hg ions are shuttled between quadrupole and a 16-pole rf traps. With this architecture we have demonstrated short-term stability ~1-2x10-13 at 1 second, averaging to 10-15 at 1 day. This development shows that H-maser quality stabilities can be produced in a small clock package, comparable in size to an ultra-stable quartz oscillator required for holding 1-2x10-13 at 1 second. We have completed an ion clock physics package designed to withstand vibration of launch and are currently building a ~ 1 kg model for test. The ion traps are contained in a sealed vacuum using only getter pump elements to hold ultra-high vacuum for many years. This operational architecture does not consume Hg vapor and requires no oven to generate Hg, greatly simplifying the instrument.