A compact atom interferometer for future space missions

Atom interferometry represents a quantum leap in the technology for the ultra-precise monitoringof accelerations and rotations and, therefore, for the science that relies on these quantities. These sensorsevolved from a new kind of optics based on matterwaves rather than light-waves and might result in anadvancement of the fundamental detection limits by several orders of magnitude. This paper describesthe current status of the Space Atom Interferometer project (SAI), funded by the European Space Agency.In a multi-pronged approach, SAI aims to investigate both experimentally and theoretically the variousaspects of placing atom interferometers in space: the equipment needs, the realistically expected performancelimits and potential scientific applications in a micro-gravity environment considering all aspectsof quantum, relativistic and metrological sciences. A drop-tower compatible atom interferometry accelerationsensor prototype has been designed, and the manufacturing of its subsystems has been started. A compactmodular laser system for cooling and trapping rubidium atoms has been assembled. A compact Raman lasermodule, featuring outstandingly low phase noise, has been realized. Possible schemes to implement coherentatomic sources in the atom interferometer have been experimentally demonstrated.