One-thousandth-level laser power stabilization based on optical feedback from a well-designed high-split-ratio and...

Area of Science:

• Optical Engineering
• Quantum Physics
• Precision Measurement

Background:

• Laser power stabilization is crucial for atomic physics, quantum measurements, and optical sensing.
• Traditional feedback loops for laser stabilization are limited by beam splitter stability, especially at high split ratios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and manufacture a nonpolarized plate beam splitter with a high split ratio that is insensitive to intensity, polarization, and temperature variations.
• To achieve high-efficiency laser power stabilization using a novel beam splitter in a feedback control system.

Main Methods:

• Development of a high-split-ratio, nonpolarized plate beam splitter.
• Implementation of an optical feedback loop utilizing the designed beam splitter.
• Closed-loop control of light intensity using an acousto-optic modulator for power stabilization.

Main Results:

• The designed beam splitter demonstrated insensitivity to beam intensity, polarization, and ambient temperature.
• Laser power outside the loop was stabilized at 537 mW over a 6-hour test.
• Achieved relative power stability (RMS) of 2.72×10^-4 and (peak-to-peak) of 1.60×10^-3.
• Relative Allan standard deviation reached 2.78×10^-5 at 200 s average time.

Conclusions:

• The novel beam splitter is compatible with high split ratios and high stability requirements in laser power stabilization systems.
• The developed system offers one-thousandth-level stability, benefiting practical applications in precision measurement and quantum technologies.