Optical frequency counting from the UV to the near IR

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Metrology and Measurement Science
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Accurate measurement of optical frequencies is crucial for fundamental physics and advanced technologies.
• Existing methods face limitations in range and precision for optical frequency determination.
• Linking optical frequencies to microwave standards like the cesium clock is a long-standing metrology challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a new method for measuring optical frequencies across the UV to near-IR spectrum.
• To establish a precise link between optical frequencies and a microwave frequency standard (cesium clock).
• To demonstrate the capability of synthesizing and measuring optical frequencies using a generated optical frequency comb.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing two known ratios ((1/2) and ?) of an optical frequency (f) relative to the cesium clock.
• Employing optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) to generate specific optical frequencies.
• Using wideband modulators to link the ((1/2))f and (?)f frequencies.
• Generating an optical frequency comb in the ~1-2 micrometer wavelength region.

Main Results:

• A method is proposed to measure optical frequencies from UV to near-IR relative to a microwave standard.
• An optical frequency comb in the ~1-2 micrometer region can be precisely generated.
• The proposed comb allows for the measurement or synthesis of most optical frequencies in the specified range.
• A specific configuration for measuring the hydrogen 1S-2S transition frequency is described.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a precise and accurate way to measure optical frequencies.
• The developed optical frequency comb serves as a versatile tool for optical frequency metrology.
• This technique has potential applications in fundamental constant measurements and advanced spectroscopy.