Modulation transfer spectroscopy in atomic rubidium

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates enhanced modulation transfer spectroscopy signals in atomic rubidium using a simple electro-optic modulator, improving laser frequency stabilization capabilities for specific hyperfine transitions.

Contribution

The study introduces a straightforward method to significantly enhance modulation transfer spectroscopy signals in rubidium, aiding laser stabilization.

Findings

Signal gradient increased by a factor of 3

Peak-to-peak amplitude increased by a factor of 2

Clear single-line signals achieved for complex hyperfine structures

Abstract

We report modulation transfer spectroscopy on the D2 transitions in 85Rb and 87Rb using a simple home-built electro-optic modulator (EOM). We show that both the gradient and amplitude of modulation transfer spectroscopy signals, for the 87Rb F=2 to F'=3 and the 85Rb F=3 to F'=4 transitions, can be significantly enhanced by expanding the beams, improving the signals for laser frequency stabilization. The signal gradient for these transitions is increased by a factor of 3 and the peak to peak amplitude was increased by a factor of 2. The modulation transfer signal for the 85Rb F=2 to F' transitions is also presented to highlight how this technique can generate a single, clear line for laser frequency stabilization even in cases where there are a number of closely spaced hyperfine transitions.