Laser system for array of entangled atomic clocks and quantum simulation
Abstract
A major scientific frontier is the creation and control of non-classical many-body states. Such control enables operation of novel quantum sensors operating beyond the standard quantum limit (SQL), as well as quantum simulation and quantum computing. We are requesting a laser system to upgrade existing experiments on atomic clocks and quantum simulation that are supported by ONR, and by MURI grants through AFOSR and ARO. By combining concepts developed under these grants, and using equipment from this DURIP grant,we will lay the foundations for a future entangled networks of entangled atomic clocks, and for powerful quantum simulators. The proposed research is based on two new key concepts that have been experimentally demonstrated recently, and that our group has contributed to. The first new technology is an array of microscopic optical traps that are reconfigurable in real time into arbitrary patterns in one and two dimensions. The second new technology are controlled long-range interactions between atoms in highly excited Rydberg states to generate entanglement between many atoms over distances of several micrometers that can easily be resolved optically. By applying these new tools to atomic clocks and atoms inside an optical cavity, we will demonstrate enablingtechnology for an extended network of optical clocks, and implement a large quantum simulator. In particular, we will demonstrate an entangled network of at two spatially separate clocks that outperforms the averaged signal from the two clocks. We will then extend the system to several ensembles. We will further demonstrate collective ~superqubits~ with strongly enhanced entanglement capabilities and gate speed compared to single atoms. These superqubits are small ensembles of atoms within the Rydberg blockade regime, so that effectively they form an artificial atom with strongly enhanced coupling to light. These superqubits will be applied to the generation of entangled states for clock operation well beyond the SQL, approaching the Heisenberg limit. Superqubits will also be used to accomplish very fast quantum simulation in a two-dimensional array at frequencies of 100 MHz. Precision timekeeping and inertial sensing below the SQL are central to many DoD missions. Extended networks of clocks will not only boost the timekeeping precision, but are also expected to have sensing applications, such as the detection of gravitational anomalies from manmade structures. Furthermore, quantum simulators and eventually, quantum computers, are expected tohave many applications of interest to DoD. The project will provide training for several graduate and undergraduate students on techniques and technology relevant to DoD needs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 20, 2019
- Source ID
- N000141912676
Entities
People
- Vladan Vuletić
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy