Abstract
Blackbody radiation sources are calculable radiation sources that are frequently used in radiometry, temperature dissemination, and remote sensing. Despite their ubiquity, blackbody sources and radiometers have a plethora of systematics. We envision a new, primary route to measuring blackbody radiation using ensembles of polarizable quantum systems, such as Rydberg atoms and diatomic molecules. Quantum measurements with these exquisite electric field sensors could enable active feedback, improved design, and, ultimately, lower radiometric and thermal uncertainties of blackbody standards. A portable, calibration-free Rydberg-atom physics package could also complement a variety of classical radiation detector and thermometers. The successful merger of quantum and blackbody-based measurements provides a new, fundamental paradigm for blackbody physics.
Highlights
In 2019, the International System of Units (SI) was redefined in terms of a set of exact values of physical constants, replacing a system which included reference artifacts
Along with the SI redefinition is a push toward a “quantum SI,” i.e. the ability to realize truly identical metrology by using identical quantum systems which are sensitive to the desired observable via immutable quantum behavior and other fundamental physical laws calculable from first principles
Induced transparency (EIT) is a two-photon process utilized for efficient Rydberg excitation by coupling a ground state to the Rydberg state via an intermediate state
Summary
In 2019, the International System of Units (SI) was redefined in terms of a set of exact values of physical constants, replacing a system which included reference artifacts. Using Planck’s law, blackbodies establish a clear relationship between temperature and radiant power This link allows for the calibration of RF noise, IR imagers, pyrometers, radiation thermometers, and other detectors. Standard BBR thermometers are entirely classical, typically involving an optical system with lenses, a monochromator or other spectral filters, integrating sphere, and detector (such as a photodiode) Each of these classical elements must be carefully characterized in order to accurately measure radiative temperature. For the temperature range 13.8033 K to 1234.93 K, ITS-90 may determine temperature T90 by any of 11 different interpolation functions for platinum resistance thermometers which are calibrated at specific defining fixed points; in this important temperature range, both the reference and detector are entirely classical. An atom- or molecule-based detector could provide internal temperature calibration to a blackbody reference to form a direct, fully quantum-SI realization of radiative temperature.
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