Iodine Frequency Reference on a Sounding Rocket

The development of compact optical frequency references plays an important role in future optical timing systems, on the ground and in space, including next-generation global-navigation satellite systems. Realization and qualification of such systems is held back by technical challenges in creating robust, reliable devices for optical metrology under demanding conditions. Here researchers demonstrate the autonomous operation of an I₂ frequency reference and the measurement of its optical frequency using a dual frequency comb on a sounding rocket, as a milestone on the way to routine application of such optical technologies in space.