Researchers at JILA, a joint institute of NIST and the University of Colorado Boulder, have developed a new type of laser called a “superradiant” laser. This laser is based on a million rubidium atoms synchronizing their behavior to produce a dim beam of deep red laser light. The new laser is 100 to 1,000 times more stable than the best conventional visible lasers, which could significantly improve the performance of advanced atomic clocks and related technologies.
The superradiant laser works by having the atoms emit synchronized photons, which escape before they can become scrambled by the mirrors. This prevents the laser frequency from wobbling, which is a common issue in traditional lasers. The extraordinary stability of the superradiant laser can be transferred to a normal laser using it as part of a feedback system, resulting in a bright laser that is 100 to 1,000 times more stable than today’s best lasers.
The improved stability of the superradiant laser could lead to better atomic clocks, which are used in GPS, optical communications, advanced geodetic surveys, and astronomy. However, for the new laser design to achieve its highest potential stability and be of practical use, it will need to be re-created using different atoms, such as strontium, which are better suited for use in advanced atomic clocks.
Keywords: Superradiant, Laser, Atomic, Clocks, Stability
