Search for varying constants of nature from astronomical observation of molecules

The status of searches for possible variation in the constants of nature from astronomical observation of molecules is reviewed, focusing on the dimensionless constant representing the proton-electron mass ratio $\mu=m_p/m_e$. The optical detection of H$_2$ and CO molecules with large ground-based telescopes (as the ESO-VLT and the Keck telescopes), as well as the detection of H$_2$ with the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph aboard the Hubble Space Telescope is discussed in the context of varying constants, and in connection to different theoretical scenarios. Radio astronomy provides an alternative search strategy bearing the advantage that molecules as NH$_3$ (ammonia) and CH$_3$OH (methanol) can be used, which are much more sensitive to a varying $\mu$ than diatomic molecules. Current constraints are $|\Delta\mu/\mu| < 5 \times 10^{-6}$ for redshift $z=2.0-4.2$, corresponding to look-back times of 10-12.5 Gyrs, and $|\Delta\mu/\mu| < 1.5 \times 10^{-7}$ for $z=0.88$, corresponding to half the age of the Universe (both at 3$\sigma$ statistical significance). Existing bottlenecks and prospects for future improvement with novel instrumentation are discussed.Comment: Contribution to Workshop "High Performance Clocks in Space" at the International Space Science Institute, Bern 201

Integration of fluorescence collection optics with a microfabricated surface electrode ion trap

We have successfully demonstrated an integrated optical system for collecting the fluorescence from a trapped ion. The system, consisting of an array of transmissive, dielectric micro-optics and an optical fiber array, has been intimately incorporated into the ion-trapping chip without negatively impacting trapping performance. Epoxies, vacuum feedthrough, and optical component materials were carefully chosen so that they did not degrade the vacuum environment, and we have demonstrated light detection as well as ion trapping and shuttling behavior comparable to trapping chips without integrated optics, with no modification to the control voltages of the trapping chip.Comment: 14 pages, 12 figure

Tapered-Rib Adiabatic-Following Fiber Coupler

Short communication

Aktive Laermminderung durch Gegenschall Abschlussbericht

In the context of a pilot project, 'ANC ventilation sound absorbers', a conventional sound absorber was successfully replaced by an active silencer, which resulted in a more than 80% by volume reduction of the passive absorption material required. The pressure loss is in the same range as with the conventional system, i.e. about 25 Pa. Widening of the cross-section, as in the conventional system, is not required. The electronic control system consumes about 30 W in the compensation state, i. e. it is not significant.Im Rahmen des Pilotprojektes 'ANC-Lueftungsschalldaempfer' konnte im Zuluftstrang einer Lueftungsanlage an der FH Bingen eine konventioneller Kulissenschalldaempfer durch einen Aktiv-Schalldaempfer erfolgreich substituiert werden. Gegenueber dem substituierten Kulissenschalldaempfer konnte das passive Absorptionsmaterial im ANC-Lueftungsschalldaempfer um ueber 80 Vol% reduziert werden. Der verursachte Druckverlust liegt mit ca. 25 Pa in der Groessenordnung des Druckverlustes des Kulissenschalldaempfers. Dieser erreicht diesen guenstigen Druckverlust aber nur deshalb, weil der Querschnitt im Bereich des Kulissenschalldaempfers entsprechend aufgeweitet wurde, worauf beim ANC-Lueftungsschalldaempfer verzichtet werden konnte. Die elektrische Betriebsleistung der Regelelektronik im Kompensationsfall wurde mit ca. 30W ermittelt und faellt damit nicht nennenswert ins Gewicht. (orig.)SIGLEAvailable from TIB Hannover: F01B707 / FIZ - Fachinformationszzentrum Karlsruhe / TIB - Technische InformationsbibliothekDeutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt, Osnabrueck (Germany)DEGerman

Field astrobiology research instruments and methods in moon-mars analogue site.

We describe the field demonstration of astrobiology instruments and research methods conducted in and from the Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) in Utah during the EuroGeoMars campaign 2009 coordinated by ILEWG, ESA/ESTEC and NASA Ames, with the contribution of academic partners. We discuss the entire experimental approach from determining the geological context using remote sensing, in situ measurements, sorties with sample collection and characterization, analysis in the field laboratory, to the post sample analysis using advanced laboratory facilities. We present the rationale for terrestrial field campaigns to strengthen astrobiology research and the link between in situ and orbital remote sensing data. These campaigns are supporting the preparation for future missions such as Mars Science Laboratory, ExoMars or Mars Sample Return. We describe the EuroGeoMars 2009 campaign conducted by MDRS crew 76 and 77, focused on the investigation of surface processes in their geological context. Special emphasis was placed on sample collection and pre-screening using in-situ portable instruments. Science investigations included geological and geochemical measurements as well as detection and diagnostic of water, oxidants, organic matter, minerals, volatiles and biota. EuroGeoMars 2009 was an example of a Moon-Mars field research campaign dedicated to the demonstration of astrobiology instruments and a specific methodology of comprehensive measurements from selected sampling sites. We discuss in sequence: the campaign objectives and trade-off based on science, technical or operational constraints. This includes remote sensing data and maps, and geological context; the monitoring of environmental parameters; the geophysical context and mineralogy studies; geology and geomorphology investigations; geochemistry characterization and subsurface studies. We describe sample handling (extraction and collection) methods, and the sample analysis of soils and rocks performed in the MDRS laboratory using close inspection, initial petrological characterization, microscopy, Visible-NIR spectrometry, Raman spectrometry, X-ray diffraction/X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, soil analysis, electrochemical and biological measurements. The results from post-mission analysis of returned samples using advanced facilities in collaborator institutes are described in companion papers in this issue. We present examples of in-situ analysis, and describe an example investigation on the exploration and analysis of endolithic microbial mats (from reconnaissance, in-situ imaging, sampling, local analysis to post-mission sample analysis). © 2011 Cambridge University Press