Sagnac Interferometry with a Single Atomic Clock

Area of Science:

• Quantum physics
• Metrology
• Atomic physics

Background:

• The Sagnac effect is crucial for precise rotation measurements using interferometry.
• Matter-wave Sagnac interferometry promises enhanced resolution, but typically relies on free-propagating atoms.
• An alternative approach leverages the Sagnac effect as a proper time difference.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate a novel Sagnac interferometer based on a single atomic clock.
• To explore the manifestation of the Sagnac effect via phase shifts in trapped atoms.
• To analyze limitations and propose an implementation for this new interferometry scheme.

Main Methods:

• Development of analytic models to quantify the Sagnac effect in a single atomic clock interferometer.
• Analysis of limitations due to atomic dynamics and finite temperature.
• Proposal for an implementation using established atomic clock technology.

Main Results:

• The Sagnac effect can be observed as a phase shift between trapped atoms in different internal states.
• Limitations arising from atomic dynamics and temperature were analytically quantified.
• A feasible implementation strategy using existing technology was suggested.

Conclusions:

• A single atomic clock interferometer offers a new method for rotation sensing.
• This approach circumvents the need for free atomic propagation, simplifying the setup.
• The proposed scheme holds promise for advancing precision rotation measurement technologies.