Cooperative quantum-optical planar arrays of atoms

Abstract

Atomic planar arrays offer a novel emerging quantum-optical many-body system in which light mediates strong interactions between the atoms. The regular lattice structure provides a cooperatively enhanced lightmatter coupling and allows for increased control and harnessing of these interactions. In subwavelength arrays, coherent scattering of incident light beams can be highly collimated in the forward and backward direction, resembling one-dimensional light propagation without the need for waveguides, fibers, or resonators. The atomic planar arrays share common features with fabricated metasurfaces, formed by thin nanostructured films that have shown great promise in manipulating and structuring classical light. Here we describe theoretical methods commonly employed to analyze the cooperative responses of atomic arrays and explore some recent developments and potential future applications of planar arrays as versatile quantum interfaces between light and matter.

Atomic Quantum Technologies for Quantum Matter and Fundamental Physics Applications

“…We refer to ref. [140] for a complete discussion on the commonly utilized theoretical methods for analyzing the cooperative responses of atomic arrays, and a deep-dive into recent advancements and potential future uses of planar arrays as adaptable quantum interfaces connecting light and matter. Moreover, we refer to [141] for a theoretical and experimental review of optical dipole traps for neutral atoms.…”