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A 4He vector zero-field optically pumped magnetometer operated in the Earth-field
F Bertrand1, T Jager1, A Boness1
1University Grenoble Alpes, CEA, Leti, F-38000 Grenoble, France.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|October 31, 2021
Summary
We developed a novel Helium-4 (⁴He) vector optically pumped magnetometer for geophysical applications. This high-accuracy magnetometer offers superior sensitivity and bandwidth compared to existing technologies.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics
- Atomic Physics
- Instrumentation
Background:
- High-performance vector magnetometers are crucial for ground and space geophysical studies.
- Existing technologies like fluxgate magnetometers have limitations in sensitivity and bandwidth for demanding applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and test a novel ⁴He vector optically pumped magnetometer (OPM).
- To meet the stringent requirements of low intrinsic noise, high bandwidth, and high accuracy for geophysical applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a parametric resonance magnetometer architecture.
- Operated the magnetometer in Earth's magnetic field with closed-loop compensation for all three magnetic field components.
- Employed ⁴He vapor for optical pumping.
Main Results:
- Achieved offset-free vector measurements across a ±70 μT range.
- Demonstrated a wide DC to 1 kHz bandwidth.
- Reached a vector sensitivity of 130 fT/√Hz, significantly outperforming current fluxgate magnetometers.
Conclusions:
- The developed ⁴He OPM is a highly promising sensor for advanced geophysical applications.
- Its superior sensitivity and bandwidth offer a significant advancement over existing magnetometer technologies.
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