Photo-detection using Bose-condensed atoms in a micro trap

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel photo-detection method using Bose-Einstein condensates in micro traps, where atom escape counts reveal photon statistics, offering improved photon-number resolution over traditional methods.

Contribution

It introduces a new photo-detection model utilizing Bose-condensed atoms, demonstrating enhanced photon-number resolution due to atom indistinguishability.

Findings

Enhanced photon-number resolution compared to traditional counting formulas

Atom escape counts accurately map incident photon statistics

Indistinguishability of atoms improves detection sensitivity

Abstract

A model of photo-detection using a Bose--Einstein condensate in an atom-chip based micro trap is analyzed. Atoms absorb photons from the incident light field, receive part of the photon momentum and leave the trap potential. Upon counting of escaped atoms within predetermined time intervals, the photon statistics of the incident light is mapped onto the atom-count statistics. Whereas traditional photo-detection theory treats the emission centers of photo electrons as distinguishable, here the centers of escaping atoms are condensed and thus indistinguishable atoms. From this an enhancement of the photon-number resolution as compared to the commonly known counting formula is derived.