Number-resolved preparation of mesoscopic atomic ensembles. (13th December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hüper, A; Pür, C; Hetzel, M; Geng, J; Peise, J; Kruse, I; Kristensen, M; Ertmer, W; Arlt, J; Klempt, C
• Is Part Of: New journal of physics. Volume 23:Number 11(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12-13
• Subjects: single-atom resolution -- accurate atom counting -- sub-Poissonian number fluctuations; Physics -- Periodicals; Physics; Periodicals; 530.05
• DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/abd058
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-2630

Abstract

Abstract: The analysis of entangled atomic ensembles and their application for interferometry beyond the standard quantum limit requires an accurate determination of the number of atoms. We present an accurate fluorescence detection technique for atoms that is fully integrated into an experimental apparatus for the production of many-particle entangled quantum states. Number-resolved fluorescence measurements with single-atom accuracy for 1 up to 30 atoms are presented. According to our noise analysis, we extrapolate that the single-atom accuracy extends to a limiting atom number of 390(20) atoms. We utilize the accurate atom number detection for a number stabilization of the laser-cooled atomic ensemble. For a target ensemble size of 7 atoms prepared on demand, we achieve a 92(2)% preparation fidelity and reach number fluctuations 18(1) dB below the shot noise level using real-time feedback on the magneto-optical trap.