One-liter Hg ion clock for space and ground applications

We describe the development of a small Hg/sup +/ ion clock suitable for space use. A small clock occupying 1-2 liters volume and producing stability of 10/sup -12///spl radic//spl tau/ would significantly advance the state of space-qualified atomic clocks. Based on recent measurements, this technology should produce long-term stability as good as 10/sup -15/.