Resonator Laser Gyro
ID: SF241-0019Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Resonator Laser Gyro

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2479871

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Resonator Laser Gyro" in their SBIR 24.1 BAA solicitation. The U.S. Space Force (USSF) requires high accuracy navigation attitude systems for use in smaller space vehicles. Current gyroscopes do not meet the required performance for precision operation in these vehicles. The goal is to develop a gyroscope with MEMS size, weight, and power, but with high navigation-grade performance. This technology would enable precision pointing of small space vehicles and have applications in offensive and defensive counterspace efforts, as well as laser communication terminals and hosted sensor payloads. The project aims to develop a nano scale ring laser gyro (RLG) that operates at an exceptional point, leveraging recent developments in exploiting gain/loss properties in nano scale waveguides. The project will have a duration of multiple phases, with Phase I focusing on designing a chip level PT-symmetry RLG and assessing its practical aspects. Phase II will produce a sensor that satisfies the complete performance requirements, and Phase III will involve testing the prototype gyro and electronics in a dynamic environment. The performance goals include a target angular random walk (ARW) of 0.005 deg/rt-hr, bias stability of 0.05 deg/hr at 30 minutes, and a gyro dynamic range of up to 10 deg/s. The project will require radiation-hardened technology and aims for a power consumption of 1 W per active channel. The solicitation is closed, and more information can be found at the DOD SBIR 24.1 BAA website.

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