This thematic is based on the use of laser beam splitters in order to split and recombine the atomic wave packets in a coherent way. The experiments use laser cooled atoms and stimulated Raman transitions. The cold atoms enable longer interaction times leading to a higher sensitivity to the inertial forces. Their accuracy surpasses these of standard technology sensors. Undergoing studies will lead to unprecedent performances, opening the way for tests of fundamental physics (relativity, (...)
Research topics
-
Free fall atom interferometers
-
Trapped atom interferometers
Using atoms confined in a trap or in a guide, one can increase drastically the interrogation time (to more than 1 s) keeping a compact apparatus. This also enables to develop new concepts of interferometers. The two important aspects in such developments are the study of the interaction with the trap and the choice of the most adapted architecture as a function of the measured quantity. Two technologies are especially adapted: laser traps (dipole traps) and atomic chips (micro-lithographic (...)