Photon storage in ¿-type optically dense atomic media. IV. Optimal control using gradient ascent

Alexey V. Gorshkov, Tomasso Calarco, Mikhail D. Lukin, Anders Søndberg Sørensen

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Abstract

We use the numerical gradient ascent method from optimal control theory to extend efficient photon storage in Lambda-type media to previouslyinaccessible regimes and to provide simple intuitive explanations for our optimization techniques. In particular, by using gradient ascent to shape classical control pulses used to mediate photon storage, we open up the possibility of high efficiency photon storage in thenonadiabatic limit, in which analytical solutions to the equations of motion do not exist. This control shaping technique enables an order-of-magnitude increase in the bandwidth of the memory. We also demonstrate that the often discussed connection between time reversal andoptimality in photon storage follows naturally from gradient ascent. Finally, we discuss the optimization of controlled reversible inhomogeneous broadening.

Original languageEnglish
JournalPhysical Review A (Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics)
Volume77
Issue number4
Pages (from-to)043806
Number of pages15
ISSN2469-9926
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2008

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