Probing gravity by holding atoms for 20 seconds

Area of Science:

• Atomic physics
• Quantum sensing
• Metrology

Background:

• Atom interferometers are crucial for fundamental physics and inertial sensing.
• Current limitations stem from short interrogation times of freely falling atoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To extend atom interferometer interrogation times.
• To enable precise gravitational potential measurements using trapped atoms.

Main Methods:

• Suspending atomic wave packets in an optical cavity lattice.
• Achieving a 20-second interrogation time with trapped atoms.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated gravitational potential measurements with micrometer vertical separation.
• Generated megaradian interferometer phase shifts after seconds of hold time.
• Suppressed phase variance due to vibrations by 3-4 orders of magnitude.

Conclusions:

• Trapped atom interferometry overcomes vibration noise limitations.
• This method enhances precision for gravimeters and fundamental physics measurements.