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Published on: November 11, 2013
Quantum sensing of microwave electric fields based on Rydberg atoms
Jinpeng Yuan1,2, Wenguang Yang1,2, Mingyong Jing1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Quantum Optics and Quantum Optics Devices, Institute of Laser Spectroscopy, Shanxi University, 92 Wucheng Road, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Microwave electric field (MW E-field) sensing is important for a wide range of applications in the areas of remote sensing, radar astronomy and communications. Over the past decade, Rydberg atoms have been used in ultrasensitive, wide broadband, traceable, stealthy MW E-field sensing because of their exaggerated response to MW E-fields, plentiful optional energy levels and integratable preparation methods. This review first introduces the basic concepts of quantum sensing, the properties of Rydberg atoms and the principles of quantum sensing of MW E-fields with Rydberg atoms. An overview of this very active research direction is gradually expanding, covering the progress of sensitivity and bandwidth in Rydberg atom-based microwave sensing, superheterodyne quantum sensing with microwave-dressed Rydberg atoms, quantum-enhanced sensing of MW E-field and recent advanced quantum measurement systems and approaches to further improve the performance of MW E-field sensing. Finally, a brief outlook on future development directions is provided.
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