Broadband optical frequency metrology system for the development of high-accuracy optical atomic clocks
Abstract
The 338.8 THz (884.9 nm) electric quadrupole transition between the ground and first-excited electronic states in quadruply ionizedbarium (BaV) is a promising candidate for a high-accuracy optical atomic clock. The lifetime of the excited clock state is 8.3 s, which allows for low statistical uncertainty, even with a single ion, for practical averaging times. Considering all known systematic shifts, the total systematic uncertainty for this clock has been estimated to be 1 part in ten to the nineteen or less. The P.I.has recently started a project, with the support of ONR Award No. N00014-22-1-2070, to develop a quantum-logic clock based on BaV.A major component of this project is to perform absolute optical frequency measurements of several narrow linewidth transitions in both BaV and a co-trapped singly ionized calcium ``logic" ion. These transitions differ by hundreds of nanometers which requires aninstrument capable of frequency measurements over a broad wavelength range. To this end, we plan to acquire broadband optical frequency comb with a wavelength coverage of 390 nm # 2000 nm which is referenced to a high-performance, cavity stabilized laser. This system will enhance the capabilities of the experimental apparatus needed to realize this novel optical clock as well as enable future optical clock development. In addition, this system will enable the training of students in the fields of optical frequency metrology and precision timekeeping for applications in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT). These areas of research are of broad interest to the Department of Defense (DoD). The proposed research fits under ONR Code 31, Division 312, under the #Atomic, Molecular & Quantum Physics# program and will support current and future DoD funded projects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 06, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312217
Entities
People
- Samuel Brewer
Organizations
- Colorado State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy