Multichannel interferometry optics for gradiometry (A07)

• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas ; Geodesy, Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, Geoinformatics, Cartography ; Geophysics
• Term: from 2014 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 239994235

Compact and robust laser interferometers are developed that can read out multiple degrees of freedom of several test masses simultaneously with limited resources and crosstalk. These multichannel interferometers will form the core of optical gradiometers consisting of six or seven test masses to be used in future gradiometry satellites for geodesy. A dedicated test interferometer for the optical readout via Deep Frequency Modulation and custom phasemeter systems have been built and are optimized before being installed the torsion balance. Our technology will also be useful in other experiments on ground, e.g. for platform stabilization.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1128: Relativistic Geodesy and Gravimetry with Quantum Sensors - Modelling, Geo-Metrology and Future Technology (geo-Q)
• Applicant Institution: Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Karsten Danzmann; Professor Dr. Oliver Gerberding