CST Global wins space contract for laser diodes
For these new types of atomic clocks, it is first necessary to demonstrate a frequency standard using a laser-pumped gas cell. The most suitable lasers for this demonstration are laser diodes operating at 780 nm for the rubidium atomic frequency standard.
CST Global will be designing and manufacturing these components at its fabrication facility in Glasgow, UK. In this, as for all space applications, it is important that the laser diodes meet extremely exacting standards of quality and reliability.
For ESTEC it is extremely important to have the latest technology for the development of its future programs, and the coherent sources for laser-pumped atomic clocks are an important building block in achieving this goal. Equally important for ESTEC is to have a reliable European source of these components and the ongoing capability to develop improved versions of the components within Europe.
Atomic clocks are the most accurate timepieces in the world capable of being accurate up to one second in 20 million years. They will be a key element in the operation of a European satellite system, which will drive the development of satellite navigation services as well as providing the main technological backbone of the new mobile communication systems.
Neil Martin, CEO of CST Global Ltd, said: "CST is extremely pleased to be awarded this important contract by ESTEC. It confirms our capabilities in the manufacture of highly reliable compound semiconductor devices such as laser diodes for this critical element of Europe s 21st century infrastructure."