Optical Clock Networks

Strontium atomic cloud at a few millikelvin above absolute zero in PTB‘s optical lattice clock (Source C.Lisdat/PTB)

QuantumFrontiers researchers play a key role in the development of the next generation of optical clocks for relativistic geodesy. Theirsingle ytterbium ion and strontium lattice clocks represent the frontier for Europe's most accurate devices and are in the first league internationally. In cooperation with several external groups, fibre-optical links were installed between Hannover, Braunschweig, Munich, Paris and London to disseminate optical frequencies over long distances. As a result, optical clocks can now be compared and characterised over long distances without loss of precision.

This whole field, initiated by QuantumFrontiers researchers, will rapidly expand by adding more long-distance connections, e.g. to INRIM in Italy, and further international standard labs. Within QuantumFrontiers, we will develop multi-ensemble clocks and novel approaches for stable frequency references, employ non-classical states and quantum non-demolition readout schemes to perform fast clock comparisons at the 10-18 level and below. Furthermore, we will bring transportable optical clocks to a new level of integration and reliability for widespread use in geodesy.

PD Dr. Christian Lisdat
Principal Investigator
Address
Bundesallee 100
38116 Braunschweig
PD Dr. Christian Lisdat
Principal Investigator
Address
Bundesallee 100
38116 Braunschweig