A resistive-anode based position-sensitive Rydberg atom detector.

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics
• Particle Detection Technology
• Quantum Mechanics

Background:

• Rydberg atom experiments require precise detection of particles.
• Previous detectors lacked position sensitivity, limiting data acquisition.
• Positronium (Ps) is a key system for fundamental physics studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel position-sensitive detector for Rydberg atom experiments.
• To improve spatial resolution and detection capabilities for positronium.
• To enable advanced measurements, such as the 1S-2S interval of Ps.

Main Methods:

• Modification of an existing detector design using a resistive anode for position measurement.
• Incorporation of micro-channel plates (MCPs) in chevron and Z-stack configurations.
• Characterization using UV-induced signals to determine spatial resolution and timing.

Main Results:

• Achieved a spatial resolution of approximately 1.4 mm for UV-induced signals.
• Demonstrated pulse timing resolution better than 1 ns.
• Anticipated sub-millimeter resolution (<1 mm) for positronium signals.

Conclusions:

• The developed position-sensitive detector offers significant improvements for Rydberg atom research.
• The detector design is adaptable for various applications, including imaging and magnification.
• This technology advances the precision of fundamental physics measurements using positronium.