Blackbody Thermometry with Quantum-State-Prepared Molecular Ions
Abstract
Recent developments in trapped molecule state control open up new possibilities for quantum sensing applications. In this work, we will use a broadband optical pumping technique to quickly and efficiently cool “alkali-like” trapped molecular ions into a target rotational state. For many applications, such as precision metrology and quantum information processing, it is desirable to work with molecules which are decoupled from the local environment. However, trapped and state-prepared molecular ions with a strong coupling to the blackbody radiation field are ideal candidates for quantum-jump thermometry of the local field. Such a local probe is of great interest for a next generation of atomic clocks and would represent one of the first quantum sensing applications of trapped molecules. Improvement of atomic clocks will play a role in an anticipated redefinition of the SI second and will open new possibilities in a number of areas including inertial navigation, geodesy, magnetometry, and tracking of deep-space probes. TASK 1: Proof-of-Principle Quantum Jump Blackbody Thermometry Using AlH+ The researchers will use technology already developed in the laboratory to demonstrate quantum-jump blackbody thermometry using state-prepared AlH+ molecules. TASK 2: Theory Search for Improved Thermometry Molecule The researchers will perform calculations on molecular ion species with structure favorable for rotational state preparation by optical pumping. The theory search will determine which of these species have the greatest sensitivity as a blackbody thermometer. TASK 3: Development of Quantum Jump Blackbody Thermometry Using New Species Working with the species selected from the theory effort, the researchers will implement broadband optical cooling and demonstrate dissociative state readout. They will then implement blackbody thermometry using this species. We will also apply different masks to prepare the molecules in states other than N=0, and we will use this information to make a course map out the BBR spectrum versus frequency. Preparing the system in N>0 not only shifts the spectral sensitivity, but also obtains a greater sensitivity, since the resonance will be closer to the BBR spectral peak. When working with N>0 will require minor modifications of the data analysis, to account for transitions to both higher and lower rotational states.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 10, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712258
Entities
People
- Brian Odom
Organizations
- Northwestern University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy