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Upconverting microwave and terahertz radiation using Rydberg atoms

Sebasian Borówka, Wiktor Krokosz, Wojciech Wasilewski, Mateusz Mazelanik, Michal P. Parniak

Published Jan 1, 2024• 0 citations
Publisher

Abstract

Upconversion of electromagnetic waves to the optical domain gives unique perspectives for novel detection systems. We present a quantum-limited, Rydberg-atom enabled system capable of detecting microwaves from photonic or electronic sources across a broad range of frequencies.
DOI
10.1364/cleo_fs.2024.ftu4l.2

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Introduction: Quantum light–matter interaction provides an excellent application of Rydberg levels. Rydberg states are special in the sense that they have a long lifetime and large dipole moments. The large number of these levels and the spacing among them enable the detection of the incoming signals in the broad region of the electromagnetic spectrum, encompassing microwave (MW), terahertz (THz) and radio frequency (RF) ranges. Electromagnetically Induced Absorption (EIA) and Transparency (EIT) can be achieved at these levels. MW and THz signals can quantum-mechanically split the relevant spectral lines in which the splitting is proportional to the strength of an incoming em field.
Terahertz imaging has become increasingly important across various fields and practical production applications. Achieving both high sensitivity and high speed remains a primary challenge for most current THz imaging technologies. In this work, we present an imaging system based on Rydberg atomic vapor operating at frequencies exceeding 1 THz. By utilizing Cesium 133 atoms coupled with THz waves, de-excitation radiation generated after atomic excitation to Rydberg states converts invisible THz waves into visible light, enabling the acquisition of spatial information and intensity distributions of THz fields. The system achieves a minimum detectable power of 330 fW /s 1/2 per (2.4×2.4) μm 2 , an imaging resolution of approximately 1.7 mm, and an imaging bandwidth of 8.6 MHz. Additionally, the theoretical imaging rate can exceed 1 MHz. The Rydberg-atom-based THz imaging system exhibits a simple structure and is amenable to miniaturization. This THz imaging method holds promise for advancing applications in THz nondestructive testing, biomedical imaging, and concealed object detection.