Cavity-enhanced Rydberg atom microwave receiver

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that placing a vapor cell with Rydberg atoms inside a microwave resonant cavity significantly enhances the sensitivity of electric field detection, achieving an 18 dB improvement in power sensitivity.

Contribution

The study introduces the use of a microwave resonant cavity to improve coupling between Rydberg atoms and microwave fields, enhancing sensor sensitivity.

Findings

Achieved 18 dB power sensitivity enhancement

Demonstrated effective electric field pulse detection

Validated cavity-based approach for Rydberg atom sensors

Abstract

Developing microwave electric field sensing based on Rydberg atom has received significant attention due to its unique advantages. However, achieving effective coupling between Rydberg atom and the microwave electric field in the sensing process is a challenging problem that greatly impacts the sensitivity. To address this, we propose the use of a microwave resonant cavity to enhance the effective coupling between the Rydberg atoms and the microwave electric field. In our experiment, we use a three-photon excitation scheme to prepare Rydberg atoms, make measurements of electric fields without and with a microwave cavity in which the vapor cell is put inside. Through experimental testing, we achieve an 18 dB enhancement of power sensitivity. The experiment shows an effective enhancement in electric field pulse signal detection. This result provides a promising direction for enhancing the sensitivity of Rydberg atomic electric field sensors and paves the way for their application in precision electric field measurements.