Optical single-sideband (OSSB) Raman laser system based on an atomic filter for atom gravimeters

Area of Science:

• Atomic physics
• Quantum optics
• Metrology

Background:

• Phase-modulator-generated lasers are crucial for atom gravimeters, simplifying systems and enhancing robustness.
• Additional sidebands (ASBs) generated during this process introduce systematic errors in gravity measurements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel method for generating an optical single-sideband (OSSB) laser for Raman transitions.
• To suppress additional sidebands (ASBs) and mitigate systematic errors in atom gravimetry.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing phase modulation combined with a Faraday anomalous dispersion atomic filter (FADOF) to generate an OSSB laser.
• Experimental validation of the FADOF-based system's ability to reduce ASBs and suppress phase shifts.

Main Results:

• Achieved reduction of additional sidebands with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) exceeding 50 dB.
• Demonstrated effective suppression of phase shift caused by ASBs from 358.8 mrad to 2.2 mrad.
• Successfully applied the system to an atom gravimeter for primary gravity measurement.

Conclusions:

• The FADOF-based Raman laser system offers a novel approach for generating OSSB lasers.
• This method effectively suppresses unwanted sidebands, significantly improving the accuracy of atom gravimeters.
• The developed system presents a new scheme for compact atom absolute gravimeters.