Laboratory of Space Systems and Optomechanics

Who We Are

At the University of Arizona’s Laboratory of Space Systems and Optomechanics (LASSO), we explore how light and mechanics can work together to sense motion at incredibly small scales. Our team designs and builds advanced inertial sensors used in fields ranging from gravitational‑wave astronomy to space geodesy.

 

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Our Group Research is Centered In:

• Novel optomechanical inertial sensing technologies.
• Optical precision measurements.
• System characterization and signal processing.

LASSO members are also part of international collaborations such as the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna – LISA Consortium and the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory – LIGO Scientific Collaboration, where we contribute to the characterization and development of ground and space-based observatories.

Applications

Our accelerometers are ideal for space applications thanks to their compatible materials and simple, robust geometry. They are cost‑effective, smaller, and lightweight, and they incorporate redundancy through a dual test‑mass approach, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments.

There are many applications for low‑frequency inertial sensing, including:

• Geodesy
• Gravimetry
• Seismometry
• Quantum and fundamental physics

We are also implementing our accelerometers in inertial navigation systems to improve long‑term stability and accuracy.

Additional applications include mineral exploration, oil and gas, underwater navigation, and the detection of underground structures. These sensors provide a gravitational signal that can be measured when instruments are sufficiently sensitive at low frequencies.

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