Integrated multiple wavelength stabilization on a multi-channel cavity for a transportable optical clock.

Area of Science:

• Atomic Physics
• Quantum Metrology
• Optical Clocks

Background:

• Transportable optical clocks are crucial for distributed timekeeping and fundamental physics tests.
• Achieving high stability and reliability in compact systems remains a challenge.
• Integrated wavelength stabilization is key for operational efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, compact, and efficient scheme for integrated wavelength stabilization.
• To enable continuous operation of a transportable ⁴⁰Ca⁺ optical clock.
• To improve the performance metrics of optical atomic clocks.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a multi-channel cavity for integrated wavelength stabilization.
• Implemented continuous operation protocols for the ⁴⁰Ca⁺ ion.
• Characterized the fractional frequency instability and linewidth of the 729 nm clock laser.

Main Results:

• Achieved a fractional frequency instability of ∼ 1.5 ×10^-15 at 10 s for the 729 nm clock laser.
• Maintained frequency fluctuations of other lasers below ± 330 kHz/day.
• Demonstrated a one-day stability of ∼ 5 ×10^-17 over 72 hours of continuous operation.

Conclusions:

• The presented scheme offers a simple, compact, and efficient solution for optical clock stabilization.
• This technology is highly promising for next-generation transportable optical clocks.
• The system has potential applications in various metrological systems requiring high precision.