Quantum-projection-noise-limited interferometry with coherent atoms in a Ramsey-type setup

Journal Article · Thu Apr 15 04:00:00 EDT 2010 · Physical Review. A

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PHYSREVA.81.043633· OSTI ID:21408689

Doering, D; McDonald, G; Debs, J E; Figl, C; Altin, P A; Bachor, H -A; Robins, N P; Close, J D ^[1]

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1. Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Quantum-Atom Optics, Australian National University, Canberra, 0200 (Australia)

Every measurement of the population in an uncorrelated ensemble of two-level systems is limited by what is known as the quantum projection noise limit. Here, we present quantum-projection-noise-limited performance of a Ramsey-type interferometer using freely propagating coherent atoms. The experimental setup is based on an electro-optic modulator in an inherently stable Sagnac interferometer, optically coupling the two interfering atomic states via a two-photon Raman transition. Going beyond the quantum projection noise limit requires the use of reduced quantum uncertainty (squeezed) states. The experiment described demonstrates atom interferometry at the fundamental noise level and allows the observation of possible squeezing effects in an atom laser, potentially leading to improved sensitivity in atom interferometers.

• OSTI ID: 21408689
• Journal Information: Physical Review. A, Journal Name: Physical Review. A Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 81; ISSN 1050-2947; ISSN PLRAAN
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS
ATOMS
BOSONS
COUPLING
ELEMENTARY PARTICLES
ENERGY LEVELS
EXCITED STATES
INTERFEROMETERS
INTERFEROMETRY
LASERS
MASSLESS PARTICLES
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NOISE
PERFORMANCE
PHOTONS
SENSITIVITY