Optical and microwave metrology at the 10−18 level with an Er/Yb:glass frequency comb

Published

February 5, 2023

Author(s)

Nicholas Nardelli, Holly Leopardi, THOMAS SCHIBLI, Tara Fortier

Abstract

Optical frequency combs are an essential tool for precision metrology experiments ranging in application from remote spectroscopic sensing of trace gases to the characterization and comparison of optical atomic clocks for precision time-keeping and searches for physics beyond the standard model. Here we describe the architecture and fully characterize a telecom-band, self-modelocking frequency comb based on a free-space laser with an Er/Yb co-doped glass gain medium. The laser provides a robust and cost-effective alternative to Er:fiber laser based frequency combs, while offering stability and noise performance similar to Ti:sapphire laser systems. Finally, We demonstrate the Er/Yb:glass frequency comb's utility in high-stability frequency synthesis using two ultra-stable optical references at 1157 nm and 1070 nm and in low-noise photonic microwave generation by dividing these references to the microwave domain.

Citation

Laser and Photonics Reviews

Pub Type

Journals

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Keywords

Er/Yb:glass laser, optical cavity, optical comparisons, optical frequency combs, precision metrology, ultrafast optics, low noise microwave generation, optical atomic clock, optical frequency division

Citation

Nardelli, N. , Leopardi, H. , Schibli, T. and Fortier, T. (2023), Optical and microwave metrology at the 10−18 level with an Er/Yb:glass frequency comb, Laser and Photonics Reviews, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=935207 (Accessed October 9, 2025)