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Cold-Atom Source Brings Portable Quantum Devices Closer to Reality

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A high-flux and compact cold-atom source with low power consumption developed by an Oxford University-led research group is poised to enable devices such as space-based atomic clocks, improving quantum applications for communication and navigation. The research is a step toward portable quantum devices. “Compact atomic clocks that can be deployed more widely, including in space, provide resilience in communications networks because local clocks can maintain accurate timekeeping even if there is a network disruption,” said research team leader Christopher Foot of Oxford...Read full article

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    Published: June 2021
    Glossary
    quantum
    The term quantum refers to the fundamental unit or discrete amount of a physical quantity involved in interactions at the atomic and subatomic scales. It originates from quantum theory, a branch of physics that emerged in the early 20th century to explain phenomena observed on very small scales, where classical physics fails to provide accurate explanations. In the context of quantum theory, several key concepts are associated with the term quantum: Quantum mechanics: This is the branch of...
    quantum optics
    The area of optics in which quantum theory is used to describe light in discrete units or "quanta" of energy known as photons. First observed by Albert Einstein's photoelectric effect, this particle description of light is the foundation for describing the transfer of energy (i.e. absorption and emission) in light matter interaction.
    laser cooling
    A process and method by which manipulation and orientation of a given number of directed laser beams decreases the motion of a group of atoms or molecules such that their internal thermodynamic temperatures reach near absolute zero. The 1997 Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded to Steven Chu, Claude Cohen-Tannoudji and William D. Phillips for the development of methods to cool and trap atoms with laser light.
    polishing
    The optical process, following grinding, that puts a highly finished, smooth and apparently amorphous surface on a lens or a mirror.
    Opticsquantumquantum opticsatomic clocksnavigationtimekeepingsecuritySecurity & DefenseSecurity & SensingmirrorsResearch & TechnologyeducationEuropeOxford Universityquantum sourceLaserslaser cooling atomslaser coolinggeometriespyramidlow costpolishingTech Pulse

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