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Prospective Optical Lattice Clocks in Neutral Atoms with Hyperfine Structure
1Time and Frequency Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Boulder, CO 80305, USA.
Atoms
|July 30, 2026
Summary
This study introduces new atomic transitions for optical lattice clocks, enabling higher precision by minimizing light shifts. These advancements expand the possibilities for advanced atomic clocks and fundamental physics research.
Area of Science:
- Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
- Metrology and Measurement Science
- Quantum Information Science
Background:
- Optical lattice clocks require specific 'magic' wavelengths to cancel light shifts for high accuracy.
- Current state-of-the-art clocks primarily use alkaline-earth-like atoms with J=0 transitions.
- Limitations exist in extending magic wavelength lattices to atoms with J≠0 states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore novel clock transitions in atoms with J≠0 states for optical lattice clocks.
- To leverage hyperfine structure for precise control over lattice-induced light shifts.
- To identify new atomic species suitable for next-generation frequency standards.
Main Methods:
- Investigated clock transitions utilizing hyperfine structure in states with J≠0.
- Proposed two specific transition types: same-parity F=0 states and M1/E2 transitions involving F=0 and J=1/2, mF=0 states.
- Analyzed atomic species, focusing on manganese and copper, for clock applications.
Main Results:
- Identified viable clock transitions in atoms with J≠0 states by exploiting hyperfine structure.
- Demonstrated suppression of fine structure-induced vector and tensor lattice light shifts.
- Presented manganese and copper as promising candidates for new optical lattice clocks.
Conclusions:
- New clock transition schemes enable the use of a wider range of atomic species in optical lattice clocks.
- These advancements enhance neutral atom clock operation and open avenues for many-body physics and new physics searches.
- The proposed methods offer a pathway to improved accuracy and stability in frequency standards.
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