Small Satellite Applications: Insights from High-Altitude Balloon Experiments with Chip Scale Atomic Clocks

The proliferation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) space applications for small satellites (smallsats) is rapidly expanding, encompassing a wide array of commercial, scientific, and defense payloads. These applications demand precision timing solutions with a focus on minimizing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements. Our research focuses on the behavior of Chip Scale Atomic Clocks (CSACs) during High-Altitude Balloon (HAB) flights. This study involves launching CSACs in HAB payloads to measure time dilation errors at the nanosecond level, comparing the result to a ground based CSAC reference. The primary goal is to explore the Gravitational Time Dilation predicted by Einstein's Theory of General Relativity and develop a robust model for accurate time dilation measurement using data from HAB launches. We anticipate that the linear slope derived from these launches will enable time calculations within a 5-nanosecond margin of error. Once this model is established, it can be applied to location prediction software, serving as a reliable alternative to satellite-based navigation. Ultimately, our research aims to provide an alternative, GPS-quality navigation, and timing information signal to users in regions where global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) may be unavailable.