We present a compact, monolithic optical reference for the frequency stabilized laser of future inter-satellite laser interferometer missions. A prototype based on the integration of a high-finesse cavity and associate optics has been designed to be space compatible while maintaining sufficient stability. The prototype has then been developed with a space-qualified bonding technique, and an in situ multi-degree-of-freedom alignment method. The performances of the optical reference have been studied by beat note analysis with another frequency stabilized laser, and the preliminary results are in agreement with the potential requirements of future space missions.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.