A Rydberg-Atom based Detector for Terahertz Radiation

Rydberg atoms have unique properties such as long lifetimes, strong dipole interaction, large polarizability, resulting in an exaggerated response to magnetic and electric fields because they can couple strongly to electric... [ view full abstract ]

Rydberg atoms have unique properties such as long lifetimes, strong dipole interaction, large polarizability, resulting in an exaggerated response to magnetic and electric fields because they can couple strongly to electric dipole transitions driven by electromagnetic fields.

We present our ongoing research towards the development of a Rydberg atom-based detector to sensor and characterize different types of THz source emitters such as superconductors emitters and quantum cascade lasers. The detector is based on a four atomic level scheme where spectroscopic methods based on THz fields induce transparency in an atomic vapour will be used to characterize a broad spectral range of frequencies and linewidth with high resolution. Besides, THz induced single atom transitions and subsequent single atom counting in an ultra-cold atomic cloud, making the detector suitable for the measurement of photon statistics of the THz emitters.  

This new detector can be used in multiple applications and it will enhance the technological development of new THz sources and detectors.