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Simultaneous Precision Gravimetry and Magnetic Gradiometry with a Bose-Einstein Condensate: A High Precision, Quantum
K S Hardman1, P J Everitt1, G D McDonald1
1Quantum Sensors and Atomlaser Lab, Department of Quantum Science, Australian National University, Canberra 0200, Australia.
Physical Review Letters
|October 8, 2016
Summary
A Bose-Einstein condensate atom source enables a high-precision sensor. This sensor simultaneously measures gravity and magnetic field gradients with unprecedented accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Atomic physics
- Quantum sensing
- Metrology
Background:
- Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) offer unique quantum properties for precision measurements.
- Atom interferometry is a powerful technique for sensing inertial forces and fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a high-precision sensor utilizing a BEC.
- To simultaneously measure the acceleration due to gravity and magnetic field gradients.
Main Methods:
- A 5x10^6 atom F=1 spinor Bose-Einstein condensate of 87Rb was used.
- Atoms were released into free fall for up to 750 ms.
- A 130 ms Mach-Zehnder atom interferometer based on Bragg transitions was employed, addressing three magnetic states simultaneously.
Main Results:
- Achieved a precision of Δg/g=1.45x10^-9 for the acceleration due to gravity.
- Measured magnetic field gradients with a precision of 120 pT/m.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated the capability of BECs as atomic sources for advanced, high-precision sensors.
- The developed atom interferometer allows for simultaneous, high-accuracy measurements of fundamental physical quantities.
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