Interacting quantum mixtures for precision atom interferometry

Abstract

We present a source engineering concept for a binary quantum mixture suitable as input for differential, precision atom interferometry with drift times of several seconds. To solve the nonlinear dynamics of the mixture, we develop a set of scaling approach equations and verify their validity contrasting it to the one of a system of coupled Gross-Pitaevskii equations.This scaling approach is a generalization of the standard approach commonly used for single species. Its validity range is discussed with respect to intra-and inter-species interaction regimes. We propose a multi-stage, non-linear atomic lens sequence to simultaneously create dual ensembles with ultra-slow kinetic expansion energies, below 15 pK. Our scheme has the advantage of mitigating wave front aberrations, a leading systematic effect in precision atom interferometry.

Inertial sensing with quantum gases: a comparative performance study of condensed versus thermal sources for atom interferometry

“…Small scale distortions (few µm) of the optical beams [63], not considered in this article, can hint to a disadvantage for the BEC samples by means of averaging effects for WFA. However, the flexibility in tuning their initial size [62] mitigates this effect and could bring them to starting sizes similar to thermal ensembles if necessary. This engineering of the BEC size allows for a distinct analysis of WFA with long and short periodicity [5,46].…”

“…As for the space-gradiometer, this is unpractical for obvious manipulation and excitation reasons. In the condensed regime, a simultaneous collimation of the dualsource was recently considered in reference [62] and shown to be feasible.…”