Gravity Probe B gyroscope readout system. (17th November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Muhlfelder, B; Lockhart, J; Aljabreen, H; Clarke, B; Gutt, G; Luo, M
• Is Part Of: Classical and quantum gravity. Volume 32:Number 22(2015:Nov.)
• Publication Date: 2015-11-17
• Subjects: Gravity Probe B -- SQUID -- general relativity -- instrumentation -- London moment; 4.80.Cc -- 07. -- 85.25.Dq -- 95.30.Sf; Quantum gravity -- Periodicals; Gravitation -- Periodicals; Relativity (Physics) -- Periodicals; Space and time -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 521.1
• DOI: 10.1088/0264-9381/32/22/224006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0264-9381

Abstract

Abstract: We describe the Gravity Probe B London-moment readout system successfully used on-orbit to measure two gyroscope spin axis drift rates predicted by general relativity. The system couples the magnetic signal of a spinning niobium-coated rotor into a low noise superconducting quantum interference device. We describe the multi-layered magnetic shield needed to attenuate external fields that would otherwise degrade readout performance. We discuss the ∼35 nrad/yr drift rate sensitivity that was achieved on-orbit.