The overall performance of navigation payloads is dependent on the performance of the on-board clocks. Better stability leads directly to improved space segment autonomy and simplified ground segment operation. The European Space Agency supports the development of advanced atomic clocks in the frame of its Technology Demonstration Program and more recently under the GNSS-2 program. Two major activities are currently running with the aim fully space-qualifying a Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS) and a Space Hydrogen Maser (SHM). The development activity for the Rubidium clocks is driven by the following major design golas: centre dot Mass < 1 Kg centre dot Short-term Stability (100s) <5x10~(-13), flicker floor pound 5 x 10~(-14) centre dot Volume <1 ltr Special emphasis has been placed on reliability for a 10-year mission. This article presents the status of the rubidium development program and focuses on the significant desing goals and resutls obtained to date.
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