Grant: Discovery Launch Supplement

Atomic clocks are the most accurate measurement devices in the world. They are essential to global timekeeping and to the realization of the SI system of units, commonly known as the metric system, which is the international standard for measurement. My research focuses on the development of atomic clocks and optical frequency combs which are technological devices developed to support atomic clocks. My proposal involves: 1. Further development of optical frequency comb technology Optical clocks use the quantum mechanical behaviour of atoms or ions as "pendulums" to measure time and can reach 18 digits of precision, the equivalent of neither gaining nor losing a second over the age of the universe. However, to make practical use of these devices requires the transfer of the clock stability from the optical frequencies (~1015 Hz), which is too fast for conventional electronics, to the radio frequencies (~108 Hz), where the clock signal can be disseminated as a timescale and compared with other clocks. This requires optical frequency combs (OFCs), which serve as tunable flywheels to bridge the 6 orders of magnitude in frequency. The first thrust of the research program will be to build on the existing technology at Canada's National Research Council (NRC) to develop accurate, reliable, and portable OFCs by improving the robustness and performance of the system, while reducing its footprint. 2. Development of an atomic lattice clock The second thrust of my proposed research will be the development of an ytterbium optical lattice clock. Lattice clocks trap tens of thousands of atoms in sheets of laser light and demonstrate the best stability among atomic clocks. This is key to rapidly evaluating systematic effects and pushing the current limits of atomic clocks. There are presently no operating lattice clocks in Canada, and the addition of this technology to the ensemble of atomic clocks at the NRC will strengthen Canada's timescale and open the door for the exploration of novel physics. Successful results from my research will open possibilities for measurements in fundamental physics such as detection of gravitational waves or dark matter, drifts in fundamental constants, or the one-way speed of light. They will help to advance the atomic clock and frequency and time metrology capabilities in Canada which will have wide-reaching scientific and societal impact. Practical applications to atomic clock development include improvements in GPS, as improved atomic clocks on satellites have the potential to lead to increased location and positioning accuracy. Precise time also helps to support the ever-increasing need for automation and synchronization of many systems that range from energy grids to financial markets. Additionally, the trainees who participate in this research proposal will gain leading-edge knowledge and develop unique technical skillsets which they can use in careers in academia, government or private industry.