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Physical Measurement Laboratory /Time and Frequency Division

Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group

The Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group Performs research on neutral-atom optical frequency standards for future primary frequency standards, for the calibration of International Atomic Time, and for probing fundamental physical theories through precision optical frequency measurements.

Neutral Atom Optical Clocks group

Neutral Atom Optical Clocks Group

Our group researches the fundamental limits of optical atomic clocks based on neutral atoms, as well as their application to quantum sensing, fundamental physics, and precision measurement. This includes the development of ultra-stable laser sources for highly coherent atom-laser interactions. We also research optical frequency combs and their application to ultra-low-noise signal generation across the electromagnetic spectrum, molecular spectroscopy, chip-scale sensors, astronomical searches for exo-planets, optical waveform generation, and more. Please see below for a more complete list of research projects and activity in our group. We have ongoing research opportunities for students and postdocs. For more information, see the contact information below.

News and Updates

Gray cylinder two inches in diameter, held in gloved fingers

Spotlight: Astro-Etalon

A small role can make an astronomical impact, as is the case for a tiny NIST-built piece of a new planet-hunting project from NASA and the National Science

Projects and Programs

Long_Feature_Image

Bringing the SI to Global Atmospheric Greenhouse Gas Measurement

Ongoing
This multifaceted program leverages expertise in three complementary technical focus areas- all of which involve SI-traceable measurements of relevant atmospheric species such as carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor and oxygen. The efforts include gravimetrically based preparation of primary
Cryogenic sapphire optical cavity

Laser Stabilization and Coherence with Optical Resonators

Ongoing
First, coherent laser interrogation of the narrowband electronic ‘clock’ transition is required to realize the very high spectroscopic resolution that make optical clocks so precise. At the same time, phase fluctuations in the laser interrogation can compromise the frequency stability of the optical
BO+WKB model

Optical Clock Atomic Structure and Theory

Ongoing
This ticking rate (i.e., frequency) is associated with a transition between two quantum levels of the atom, where each level corresponds to a different configuration of the electrons around the nucleus. Atomic clocks derive their incredible accuracy and precision from the robust nature of atoms
atom chamber

Portable Optical Lattice Clock

Ongoing
These include a variety of navigation, communication, and remote sensing and imaging applications. The very best atomic clocks today, optical clocks, are among the most precise measurement devices of any kind. For example, the NIST ytterbium optical lattice clock can make frequency or time

Contacts

Group Leader