WP1- Development and validation of high performance components for transportable optical clocks. (UDUS lead)
This work package centers around developments for the improvement of the two European transportable optical clocks developed in the framework of a previous EU-FP7 project, called SOC (Space optical clocks). One is based on neutral Yb in an optical lattice, the other on Sr atoms. The latter is also a breadboard demonstrator for a future space optical clock. The goal of WP1 is to focus on the clock lasers and on general experimental procedures, such as the reduction of systematic disturbances and computer control of the whole clock apparatus.
WP2 – Development and validation of prototypes and subsystems for space optical clocks. (NPL lead)
The European Space Agency is pursuing, together with the international consortium SOC (Space Optical Clocks, www.soc2.eu), the development of an optical lattice clock based on Sr, for future operation on board the International Space Station. For this purpose, a breadboard Sr lattice clock demonstrator has been developed by several of the partners of this project (PTB, UoB, UDUS, NPL). Based on that experience of that breadboard and the activities of WP1, in WP2 several subsystems of an optical lattice clock are being developed in a form that they are compatible with operation in space, in particular on the ISS. This means that they have to be sufficiently compact, robust (they must withstand > 10 g acceleration upon launch), of low power consumption, and controllable remotely.
The project concentrates on four subsystems – treating all subsystems goes beyond the funding capabilities of Q-sense.
WP 3- Characterization, calibration and applications of transportable optical clocks. (INRIM lead)
The two transportable optical clocks developed by the European consortium SOC are planned in this WP to be brought to a performance at the level of 1E-17 instability and 1E-17 inaccuracy.
WP4 – Modelling for quantum sensors. (UoB lead)
The main objective of work package 4 is to create an open source-modelling package for quantum sensors, to allow engagement with external communities such as navigation or mapping.
WP5 – Applications of quantum sensors. (UoB lead)
The objective of work package 5 is to examine application scenarios for quantum sensors, splitting this into two key domains: space-based systems and terrestrial systems. This is driven by feasibility studies targeted at each of domain, focusing on fundamental and applied objectives for the space systems, and applied objectives on ground.
WP6- Dissemination. (UoB lead)
The objective of the dissemination and communication work package 6 is to disseminate the scientific knowledge generated by the Q-SENSE project at European and International level and the developments that have been achieved within the project.
WP7- Project Management. (UoB lead)
This work package concerns all the management aspects of the project and monitoring of progress towards the ultimate objectives, identifying shortcomings and recommending remedial action where necessary. The coordinator oversees action plans and monitor their timely execution, within the given resources.