Operation Modes of an Optically Pumped 6H SiC Quantum/Solid-State Magnetometer

Magnetometers are crucial tools for various in situ and remote sensing applications. In space, they provide measurements that help address various questions in planetary science, Earth science, and heliophysics. On Earth, they are used for GPS-denied navigation, geological surveying, and submarine detection, among other uses. Magnetometers come in many conventional forms including the Hall sensor, fluxgate, superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID), and optically pumped atomic vapor, but the novel quantum-center infused solid-state magnetometers are gaining a lot of traction with recent advancements made in material science. This study compares different operational modes of a magnetic field compensation-based quantum solid-state magnetometer able to measure both magnitude and orientation of the ambient magnetic field. It leverages the optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) of spin-sensitive quantum centers in 6H silicon carbide (6H SiC). The three potential operational modes—zero field splitting (ZFS), level anti-crossing (LAC) 1 and LAC 2—are evaluated in the context of scientific requirements: ZFS mode enhances signal without bias fields, while LAC-focused operation is power-efficient, making it especially interesting for space applications. This article highlights the advantage of using 6H SiC over other solid-state materials due to the modest compensation field required for the system. Additionally, we show the potential for sensor head miniaturization, while simultaneously preserving measurement accuracy and sensitivity. Integrating a compact fiber-based system with a three-axis Helmholtz coil framework holds promise for many practical applications for improving spatial coverage and sensing versatility.