Optical frequency references for space missions

Kurzfassung

Laser frequency stability is essential for many experiments and missions in space where a laser is used to probe time and/or space, e.g., gravitational wave detection, Earth gravity field measurement, global navigation satellite systems, tests of special relativity, etc. We present our efforts in laser frequency stabilization systems and their qualification for space, which includes a frequency reference unit based on Doppler-free spectroscopy using an iodine molecule cell envisaged for space applications and our first steps towards a high-finesse optical resonator optimized for long time scales (hours).