Spectroscopy of strontium Rydberg states using electromagnetically induced transparency

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a high-resolution optical spectroscopy technique using electromagnetically induced transparency to detect and measure Rydberg states in strontium atoms, enabling precise isotope shift measurements.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel application of EIT for high-resolution, non-destructive spectroscopy of Rydberg states in strontium, with potential for ultra-cold gas analysis.

Findings

Achieved 5 MHz EIT linewidth in strontium

Measured isotope shifts of specific Rydberg states

Demonstrated potential for ultra-cold plasma diagnostics

Abstract

We report on the all-optical detection of Rydberg states in a effusive atomic beam of strontium atoms using electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). Using narrow-linewidth CW lasers we obtain an EIT linewidth of 5 MHz. To illustrate the high spectroscopic resolution offered by this method, we have measured isotope shifts of the 5s18d ^1D_2 and 5s19s ^1S_0 Rydberg states. This technique could be applied to high-resolution, non-destructive measurements of ultra-cold Rydberg gases and plasmas.