Light Storage in Atomic Coherences: New Protocols and Applications

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Thomas Halfmann
• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas
• Term: from 2010 to 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 169439306

The following proposal deals with the implementation, investigation and application of coherent- adiabatic interactions between light and quantized media. In particular, we aim at applications of light storage in atomic coherences, driven by electromagnetically-induced transparency (EIT). We propose investigations on storage of two-dimensional information (i.e. images) in atomic coherences, driven in Praseodymium dopants in a host crystal. In contrast to the gas phase, doped solids permit much larger storage times and storage efficiencies. Moreover, the medium offers scalability. We plan to combine image storage in atomic coherences with dynamic decoherence control and feedback-controlled pulse shaping, involving evolutionary algorithms. Combination of the powerful techniques permits the enhancement of storage times and storage efficiencies in atomic coherences by orders of magnitude. First feasibility studies support these expectations. In addition to EIT, we also propose the application of stimulated Raman adiabatic passage (STIRAP) to drive logic operations. This may also provide possibilities for optical parallel processing. In summary, the projects aim at a significant extension of the state-of-the-art in light storage, novel concepts for optically-driven logics, and combination of powerful optical technologies towards novel applications.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants