Laser Offset Stabilization with Chip-Scale Atomic Diffractive Elements

TL;DR

This paper introduces a chip-scale atomic diffractive element device that enables precise, adjustable laser frequency stabilization across a broad bandwidth, suitable for quantum technology applications.

Contribution

It presents a novel microfabricated atomic diffractive element for offset laser stabilization, demonstrating sub-megahertz stability and broad bandwidth without magnetic fields.

Findings

Achieved laser stabilization with sub-megahertz instability.

Generated multiple stabilization points over tens of gigahertz bandwidth.

Device is compact, scalable, and magnetic-field free.

Abstract

Achieving precise and adjustable control over laser frequency is an essential requirement in numerous applications such as precision spectroscopy, quantum control, and sensing. In many such applications it is desired to stabilize a laser with a variable detuning from an atomic line. In this study, we employ an offset-stabilization scheme by utilizing phase contrast spectroscopy in microfabricated atomic diffractive elements vapor-cells. The spectroscopic response of such a device generates oscillating optical fringes, providing multiple optical frequency stabilization points across a bandwidth of tens of gigahertz, centered around the absorption resonances of Rb. Using this device, we demonstrate laser stabilization at various offset frequencies with instabilities reaching sub-megahertz levels. We further explore the fundamental limitations of our hybrid atomic-photonic device, drawing parallels to birefringent and dichroic spectroscopy apparatuses, which are commonly employed for offset stabilization. Our system showcases a broad offset lock bandwidth, a highly compact footprint, scalability to chip-scale production, and the ability to operate without reliance on magnetic fields. These attributes pave the way for a multitude of applications in quantum technologies.