Budker, D.
, Shaffer, J.
and Kitching, J.
(2025),
Atom-Based Quantum Sensing of Electromagnetic Fields, Optica, [online], https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTICA.569334, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=959973
(Accessed March 30, 2026)
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Atom-Based Quantum Sensing of Electromagnetic Fields
Published
Author(s)
Dmitri Budker, James Shaffer,
Abstract
The spin and electronic degrees of freedom in atomic systems provide sensitive and versatile means for detecting electromagnetic fields, from DC to THz frequencies with spatial resolutions ranging from the nanoscale to meter scale. Such sensors offer unique advantages compared to classical approaches, resulting from their intrinsic quantum nature. We review three different sensor modalities: atomic vapor magnetometers, NV-center magnetometers, and radio frequency sensors based on Rydberg atoms. We emphasize the unique features and capabilities of these types of sensors in the context of real-world applications.Citation
Optica
Volume
12
Issue
12
Pub Type
Journals
Download Paper
Keywords
Quantum sensor, magnetometer, rydberg atom, nitrogen-vacancy center
Citation
Issues
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Created December 19, 2025, Updated March 28, 2026