A scalable scanning transfer cavity laser stabilization scheme based on the Red Pitaya STEMlab platform

TL;DR

This paper introduces a cost-effective, scalable laser stabilization scheme using the Red Pitaya platform, achieving high bandwidth and stability for multiple lasers in atomic physics experiments.

Contribution

A novel, simple, and scalable laser stabilization method based on a scanning transfer cavity lock implemented on the Red Pitaya platform with custom software.

Findings

Achieved stabilization of up to four lasers simultaneously.

Attained a stabilization bandwidth of 100 Hz.

Reduced long-term frequency drifts to below 1 MHz per hour.

Abstract

Many experiments in atomic and molecular physics require simultaneous frequency stabilization of multiple lasers. We present a stabilization scheme based on a scanning transfer cavity lock that is simple, stable and easily scalable to many lasers at minimal cost. The scheme is based on the Red Pitaya STEMlab platform, with custom software developed and implemented to achieve up to 100 Hz bandwidth. As an example demonstration, we realize simultaneous stabilization of up to four lasers and a reduction of long-term drifts to well below 1 MHz per hour. This meets typical requirements, e.g. for experiments on laser cooling of molecules.