Optical frequency synthesis spectroscopy

Abstract

In order to measure the super narrow spectral features of cooled atoms and ions, in the optical region, optical frequency synthesis (OFS) techniques rather than wavelength techniques must be used. It is anticipated that many of these resonances will be in the optical region of the spectrum, and this paper will address the state-of-the-art of the measurements of frequencies in that region. Two recent optical frequency measurements of iodine transitions in the visible will be described as well as recent improvements in fabricating the point-contact diode used in these measurements.