Magnetometers, atomic sensors and related systems, methods and devices are disclosed. In one configuration, an assembly for use in a high-sensitivity atomic sensor can include an alkali vapor cell, at least one illumination source configured to emit light when activated, the emitted light having a first predetermined range of wavelengths, a light collector capable of collecting light in the first predetermined range of wavelengths, and a plurality of optical elements arranged such that (a) light emitted from the at least one illumination source is directed to the alkali vapor cell, and (b) light emerging from the alkali vapor cell is directed to the light collector.