BEAM - CA, LLC — National Aeronautics and Space Administration SBIR Phase I: S1

Description

The goal of the project is to develop a new type of vector magnetometer using spin wave interferometers. nbsp;Spin wave is a collective oscillation of spins which propagation is sensitive to variations of the external magnetic field. We propose to explore the possibility of integrating a number of spin wave interferometers in a phased-array antenna to increase overall sensitivity and directivity beyond the limits of a single element. This approach has the potential to significantly the improve performance and robustness of vector magnetometers. nbsp;In Phase I, the team is going to provide a proof-of-concept verification by building antennas with four integrated spin wave interferometers. The prototypes will be tested in laboratory conditions. The experimental testing will be complemented by the results of numerical modeling. nbsp;If successful, this project will open a new horizon for vector magnetometers development to be of great benefit to NASA mission as well as for the variety of non-NASA applications.