Advancements in Low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) Atomic Clocks for Space Environments

Christopher Higgins, Will Emanuel, Will Krzewick, John Bollettiero, and Mike Silveira

Abstract:	We present the results of new, radiation-tolerant Coherent Population Trapping (CPT) clocks engineered for operation in high-radiation and thermally dynamic environments. A new space Chip-Scale Atomic Clock (CSAC) demonstrates Total Ionizing Dose (TID) tolerance up to 30 kRad with no measurable degradation in clock performance, extending applicability to long-duration space missions in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) and further orbits. Compared to its predecessor, the new space CSAC exhibits improved temperature stability, reducing maximum frequency change over its operating range by 40% while increasing the operable temperature range. Single Event Effects (SEE) are explored and methods for detecting and recovering from SEE are presented. Furthermore, the results from a high-performance Rb CPT clock are presented, allowing for higher stability, wider operating temperature range, and lower phase noise in satellite and lunar applications. These results highlight readiness for deployment in mission-critical timing applications requiring both radiation tolerance and environmental resilience.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 57th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting January 26 - 29, 2026 Hyatt Regency Orange County Anaheim, California
Pages:	12 - 20
Cite this article:	Higgins, Christopher, Emanuel, Will, Krzewick, Will, Bollettiero, John, Silveira, Mike, "Advancements in Low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) Atomic Clocks for Space Environments," Proceedings of the 57th Annual Precise Time and Time Interval Systems and Applications Meeting, Anaheim, California, January 2026, pp. 12-20. https://doi.org/10.33012/2026.20483
Full Paper:	ION Members/Non-Members: 1 Download Credit Sign In