NIST researchers have developed a compact atomic gyroscope that could revolutionize navigation technology. The device, which measures just 3.5 cubic centimeters, uses an expanding cloud of laser-cooled rubidium atoms to detect rotation. By analyzing patterns of interfering matter waves, the gyroscope can measure rotation rates of up to 44 milliradians per second.
The NIST gyroscope represents a significant advancement in miniaturization of atomic sensors. While traditional gyroscopes rely on mechanical components, this new design could be shrunk to a portable cube about the size of a mini refrigerator. The device also simultaneously measures acceleration, enabling “dead reckoning” navigation without external references.
The technology could have applications in ultra-precise navigation for spacecraft, submarines, and other applications requiring extreme size, weight, and power constraints. The NIST team aims to further develop the technology for practical use in the near future.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2016/08/nists-compact-gyroscope-may-turn-heads
Keywords: Interferometry, Atom interferometer, Gyroscope, Rotation measure, Acceleration
