Dual-wavelength laser source for onboard atom interferometry

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Quantum Technologies
• Laser Science

Background:

• Atom interferometry requires stable, precise laser sources.
• Onboard applications demand compact, vibration-immune systems.
• Dual-species experiments necessitate multiple, controllable laser wavelengths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact and stable dual-wavelength laser source for onboard atom interferometry.
• To leverage mature fiber telecom technology for enhanced system stability and robustness.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for dual-species cold atom experiments.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing frequency-doubled telecom lasers locked to a femtosecond optical frequency comb.
• Integrating fiber-based components to minimize free-space optics and enhance stability.
• Implementing a system immune to vibrations and thermal fluctuations.

Main Results:

• A compact and stable dual-wavelength laser source was successfully developed.
• The laser source demonstrated the frequency agility and phase stability needed for atom interferometry.
• The first dual-species (Potassium-Rubidium) magneto-optical trap in microgravity was achieved during parabolic flights.

Conclusions:

• The developed laser source is suitable for onboard atom interferometry and other cold atom experiments.
• The use of telecom technology significantly improves system robustness against environmental disturbances.
• The system's performance was validated through successful dual-species microgravity experiments.