Laser Fields for Quantum State Control of BaF Molecules

Schalm, Sybrich van (2025) Laser Fields for Quantum State Control of BaF Molecules. Bachelor's Thesis, Physics.

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Abstract

The existence of a permanent electron electric dipole moment (eEDM) would imply violations of parity and charge-parity symmetries, offering a potential window into Beyond the Standard Model (BSM) physics. The NL-eEDM experiment aims to improve the current upper bound on the eEDM by conducting a spin precession measurement on a cold beam of barium monofluoride (BaF) molecules. It is the first experiment in the field to employ laser light counterpropagating to the molecular beam for coherent quantum state control, enabling improved spatial and temporal precision in two-photon transitions. This thesis focuses on the characterization and optimization of the counterpropagating laser system by minimizing optical power losses, optimizing acousto-optic modulator (AOM) performance, and monitoring laser power stability. High and stable intensity is essential for achieving high-fidelity quantum state manipulation. Systematic measurements revealed no anomalous power losses across the optical configuration, and the delivered intensity was found sufficient for strong interaction with the molecular beam. Although intensity fluctuations were observed over multi-day timescales, these are unlikely to affect coherence during individual measurement cycles. For longterm statistical data collection, however, continuous monitoring is recommended to enable correction during data analysis. Together, these results demonstrate the reliability of the counterpropagating laser system and support the NL-eEDM experiment in its objective of improving experimental sensitivity to symmetry-violating effects in fundamental physics.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Willmann, L.
Degree programme:	Physics
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	16 Jul 2025 09:23
Last Modified:	24 Jul 2025 10:24
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/35980

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