Absolute and relative stability of an optical frequency reference based on spectral hole burning in Eu$^{3+}$:Y$_2$SiO$_5$


Abstract in English

We present and analyze four frequency measurements designed to characterize the performance of an optical frequency reference based on spectral hole burning in EuYSO. The first frequency comparison, between a single unperturbed spectral hole and a hydrogen maser, demonstrates a fractional frequency drift rate of $5 times 10^{-18}$ s$^{-1}$. Optical-frequency comparisons between a pattern of spectral holes, a Fabry-Perot cavity, and an Al$^+$ optical atomic clock show a short-term fractional frequency stability of $1 times10^{-15} tau^{-1/2}$ that averages down to $2.5^{+1.1}_{-0.5} times 10^{-16}$ at $tau = 540~s$ (with linear frequency drift removed). Finally, spectral hole patterns in two different EuYSO crystals located in the same cryogenic vessel are compared, yielding a short-term stability of $7 times10^{-16} tau^{-1/2}$ that averages down to $5.5^{+1.8}_{-0.9} times 10^{-17}$ at $tau = 204$~s (with quadratic frequency drift removed).

Download