A large-momentum-transfer Raman atom interferometer without $k$-reversal

Abstract

We present a Raman atom interferometer using large momentum transfer without reversing the direction of the effective wavevector ($k$-reversal). More specifically, we use a microwave $\ddot{I}€$/2 pulse to manipulate the spin state of ${}^{87}$Rb atoms before applying a Raman light $\ddot{I}€$ pulse to achieve 4$\hslash k$ momentum transfer per Raman light pulse. A microwave $\ddot{I}€$ pulse in the middle of the interferometer sequence reverses the spin states, which allows closing of the interferometer arms by the same Raman light $\ddot{I}€$ pulses without propagation reversal. We present a proof-of-principle demonstration of a 4$\hslash k$ large-momentum-transfer (LMT) atom interferometer and discuss its scalability. Our results extend the scope of using LMT atom optics.

11 pages, 5 figures + 4 pages supplemental