Test of a space cold atom clock prototype in absence of gravity

Abstract

We describe a space cold atom clock prototype and its operation on board an aircraft. We have recorded the atomic resonance in zero gravity during parabolic flights. This experiment must be considered as an essential step toward the construction of a space clock using cold atoms. In a microgravity environment, a cold atomic clock would outperform all ground-based clocks. By the year 2002, we plan to operate a cold atom clock on board the international space station. This mission is called Atomic Clock Ensemble in Space (ACES). We have also performed a preliminary accuracy evaluation of the prototype. The interrogation of the cold atoms is performed inside a TE/sub 013/ cavity. On earth, the phase variations of the field induce a relative frequency shift of about 1/spl times/10/sup -13/. Although the frequency shift is expected to strongly decrease in microgravity, this cavity does not seem suitable for a 1/spl times/10/sup -16/ frequency uncertainty.