Yb double-frequency clock

We launched a new project in March 2024, where we aim to combine neutral atom quantum technologies with high precision spectroscopy to study fundamental physics.

We are always looking for motivated students to join our team!

High-precision spectroscopy with neutral Yb atoms

Available clock states in neutral Yb.

Available clock states in neutral Yb.

Alkaline-earth(-like) atoms, such as Yb, constitute the most precise optical clocks we have today. Combining high-precision spectroscopy with quantum information protocols opens exciting new ways for quantum metrology and sensing. At the same time Yb is a particularly interesting candidate for searches of new physics. This is enabled by a number of additional clock transitions that have been proposed for tests of local position invariance, local Lorentz invariance and α-variation, potentially providing access to novel searches for dark matter and new forces beyond the Standard Model. These tests leverage the enhanced sensitivity of an inner-shell clock transitions to the 4f¹³5d6s²(J = 2)-state.

Schematic of stability transfer setup.

Schematic of stability transfer setup.

In order to achieve high-precision spectroscopy on multiple clock transitions in Yb, we are setting up a frequency comb that is stabilized to an ultrastable reference at 1542nm. To this end we set up a laser system that is referenced to an ultrastable cavity that is placed in a box which shields the cavity from acoustic noise, vibrations and thermal fluctuations. The stability is then transfered to the various clock transitions by locking the different clock laser systems to the frequency comb.

Experimental progress

Here we give a short overview of our experimental progress. Since August 2025, our new lab space has been ready and we started setting up the infrastructure.