Stabilizing and Measuring Optical Frequencies

Published

October 1, 1999

Author(s)

John L. Hall, M S. Taubman, Scott A. Diddams, B Tiemann, Jun Ye, L -. Ma, D J. Jones, Steven T. Cundiff

Abstract

Many factors are coming together to make this an exciting time in the development of optical frequency standards. These include improved strategies for interrogation of the resonant quantum reference sample, improved accuracy and control of the modulation process, demonstration of an external modulation-removal strategy, and a rich field of new possibilities for frequency measurement, particularly the arrivel of broad optical comb generation techniques. Frequency-domain methods based on broad femtosecond laser combs are very promising, as made clear by the work of Udem, Hansch et al. We easilv see beats at 805 nm with optical comb lines whose center is at 840 nm. a 16 THz interval. Adjustment of the laser compensation broadens the comb to > 140 nm width at - 3 dB. Stabilization of both optical center frequency and pulse rate have been implemented. Interesting combs are also generated near 1060 nm with Kourougi's modulator-in-a-cavity approach, augmented by an intracavity LiNbO₃ crystal which provides OPO gain and frequency connection to the stable pump. So far about 15.000 coherent comb lines are generated limited by uncompensated dispersion in the OPO cavity. Useful data regarding S/N necessary for accurate counting and a powerful adaptive Phase-Tracking filter/Oscillator are discussed.

Proceedings Title

Laser Spectroscopy, International Conference | 14th | Laser Spectroscopy: XIV International Conference | World Scientific

Volume

1999

Issue

14th

Conference Dates

June 7-11, 1999

Conference Location

Innsbruck, AU

Conference Title

International Conference on Laser Spectroscopy

Pub Type

Conferences

Keywords

femtosecond laser, laser spectroscopy, laser stabilization, optical frequency measurement, tracking filter

Citation

Hall, J. , Taubman, M. , Diddams, S. , Tiemann, B. , Ye, J. , Ma, L. , Jones, D. and Cundiff, S. (1999), Stabilizing and Measuring Optical Frequencies, Laser Spectroscopy, International Conference | 14th | Laser Spectroscopy: XIV International Conference | World Scientific, Innsbruck, AU (Accessed December 26, 2024)