Quantum states of light from a semiconductor disk laser
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Strathclyde
Department Name: Physics
Abstract
In this project we will demonstrate generation of quantum states of light at telecommunications wavelengths by combining novel, ultra-narrow-linewidth semiconductor disk lasers (SDLs) and cavity enhanced nonlinear conversion techniques. Ultra-narrow-linewidth low noise SDLs have been developed in Phase I of the National Quantum Technology Hub for Sensors and Metrology (EP/M013294/1) as an underpinning technology for quantum systems, e.g. cooling lasers; however, here we will investigate their direct quantum capabilities for the first time.
Cavity-enhanced nonlinearities are among the most widely used systems for the generation of non-classical states of light and optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) in particular are common tools in quantum optical laboratories; however, OPOs remain bulky and complex, especially when one accounts for the addition of the noise suppression required for typical laser sources. SDLs on the other hand are capable of very low noise operation and are intrinsically shot-noise limited over a broad frequency range. Further they provide the means to embed the nonlinear process directly inside the laser cavity. Indeed the superior noise performance of an intracavity SDL OPO has previously been demonstrated at the Institute of Photonics, but with 'standard classical' characterisation only. In this new project we will investigate their potential for the generation of non-classical states of light.
Cavity-enhanced nonlinearities are among the most widely used systems for the generation of non-classical states of light and optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) in particular are common tools in quantum optical laboratories; however, OPOs remain bulky and complex, especially when one accounts for the addition of the noise suppression required for typical laser sources. SDLs on the other hand are capable of very low noise operation and are intrinsically shot-noise limited over a broad frequency range. Further they provide the means to embed the nonlinear process directly inside the laser cavity. Indeed the superior noise performance of an intracavity SDL OPO has previously been demonstrated at the Institute of Photonics, but with 'standard classical' characterisation only. In this new project we will investigate their potential for the generation of non-classical states of light.