Simple method of light-shift suppression in optical pumping systems

TL;DR

The paper introduces a simple, effective method using frequency modulation to suppress light shifts in optical pumping systems, enhancing atomic clock stability with minimal equipment.

Contribution

A novel technique employing frequency modulation to simultaneously lock laser and RF source frequencies, reducing light shifts in optical pumping systems.

Findings

Validated in vapor-cell atomic clock experiments

Numerical simulations confirm effectiveness

Reduces equipment needs and improves long-term stability

Abstract

We report a simple method to suppress the light shift in optical pumping systems. This method uses only frequency modulation of a radio frequency or microwave source, which is used to excite an atomic resonance, to simultaneously lock the source frequency to the atomic resonance and lock the pumping light frequency to suppress the light shift. We experimentally validate the method in a vapor-cell atomic clock and verify the results through numerical simulation. This technique can be applied to many optical pumping systems that experience light shifts. It is especially useful for atomic frequency standards because it improves long-term performance, reduces the influence of the laser, and requires less equipment than previous methods.