Large-Momentum-Transfer Atom Interferometers with μrad-Accuracy Using Bragg Diffraction

Area of Science:

• Quantum sensing
• Atom interferometry
• Precision measurement

Background:

• Large-momentum-transfer (LMT) atom interferometers utilizing elastic Bragg scattering are advanced quantum sensors.
• Current accuracy limitations necessitate a deeper understanding of Bragg interferometer phenomenology, which differs from standard interferometers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an analytic model for LMT Bragg interferometer signals.
• To determine and achieve the atomic projection noise limit.
• To suppress systematic phase errors to the μrad regime.

Main Methods:

• Development of an analytic model for the interferometer signal.
• Validation of the model using comprehensive numerical simulations.
• Application of the model to determine and saturate the atomic projection noise limit.

Main Results:

• The analytic model accurately describes the Bragg interferometer signal.
• The atomic projection noise limit of LMT Bragg interferometers is determined.
• Systematic phase errors are suppressed by 2 orders of magnitude, reaching a few μrad.

Conclusions:

• The developed analytic model is crucial for advancing LMT atom interferometer accuracy.
• The model enables saturation of the atomic projection noise limit.
• Precise control over light-pulse parameters allows significant suppression of systematic errors.