RYdberg atoms for Clocks and Radiation Detection – RYCARD

We propose to exploit the outstanding properties of Rydberg states to advance the state-of-the-art of optical atomic clocks and electromagnetic field sensors. The exceptional polarizability of Rydberg states will be used to accurately measure microwave fields. This method will be applied to the measurement of blackbody radiation in optical lattice clocks, and to high resolution electromagnetic imaging in a single atom array, both of which require similar sensitivities. In a second step, we will explore methods to reach frequency-resolved measurements: in the single-atom array, each atom will address a different frequency, and in the clocks we will aim at sensitive transitions in the THz domain, close to the peak of blackbody radiation emission. Finally, we will exploit the theoretical and experimental experience gained in this project to define perspectives for the use of entangled states to overcome the standard quantum limit of quantum sensors. To achieve these goals, the consortium gathers three partners recognized for their expertise in Rydberg atoms, state-of-the-art quantum sensors and manipulation of entangled states between single atoms.