Programmable frequency reference for subkilohertz laser stabilization by use of persistent spectral hole burning

Area of Science:

• Laser Physics
• Quantum Optics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Precise laser frequency control is crucial for many scientific and technological applications.
• Existing frequency stabilization methods often require complex setups or specialized environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate laser frequency stabilization directly to persistent spectral holes in a solid-state material.
• To evaluate the stability achieved using this novel approach.

Main Methods:

• Utilized deuterated calcium fluoride doped with thulium ions (CaF(2): Tm(3+)) as the frequency reference material.
• Prepared persistent spectral holes with a 25-MHz width on the H(6)(3)?H(4)(3) transition at 798 nm.
• Independently locked two lasers to spectral holes in separate crystal samples and measured their beat frequency.

Main Results:

• Achieved laser frequency stabilization directly to persistent spectral holes.
• Observed typical root Allan variances of 780+/-120 Hz for 20-50 ms integration times.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of using solid-state persistent spectral holes as a frequency reference.

Conclusions:

• This work represents the first demonstration of laser frequency stabilization using persistent spectral holes in a solid-state material.
• The results indicate that persistent spectral holes offer a promising route for developing compact and robust laser frequency standards.
• Further research can explore optimizing materials and techniques for enhanced frequency stability.