Photon collection from a trapped ion--cavity system

TL;DR

This paper reports the development of a trapped ion cavity QED system with observed Purcell enhancement and complex spectral features, advancing the integration of ion-based quantum systems with photonic networks.

Contribution

It introduces a novel trapped ion cavity QED setup demonstrating enhanced photon collection and complex atom-cavity interactions, suitable for quantum networking.

Findings

Purcell enhancement of scattered light

Observation of a three-peak spectral structure

Potential for integration into quantum networks

Abstract

We present the design and implementation of a trapped ion cavity QED system. A single ytterbium ion is confined by a micron-scale ion trap inside a 2 mm optical cavity. The ion is coherently pumped by near resonant laser light while the cavity output is monitored as a function of pump intensity and cavity detuning. We observe a Purcell enhancement of scattered light into the solid angle subtended by the optical cavity, as well as a three-peak structure arising from strongly driving the atom. This system can be integrated into existing atom{photon quantum network protocols and is a pathway towards an efficient atom{photon quantum interface.