Researchers at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have made a breakthrough in quantum technology by demonstrating that quantum interferences in an atomic medium can effectively store light for extended periods. This significant finding could pave the way for innovative applications in high-precision quantum sensors, as detailed in their recent publication in the journal Physica Scripta.

In collaboration with scientists from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Hyderabad, the team utilized thermal potassium atoms and subjected them to two laser beams to create quantum interferences within the atomic medium. The researchers achieved this by employing a control laser to establish quantum coherence among the potassium atoms.

Gourab Pal, the lead author and a doctoral student at RRI's Quantum Mixtures (QuMix) lab, highlighted the novelty of their approach, stating, "This work innovatively uses potassium atoms to conduct Electromagnetically Induced Transparency (EIT) studies via a coherent medium". EIT is a quantum interference phenomenon that dramatically alters the optical response of an atomic medium.

The researchers examined the response of probe light after it passed through the atomic coherent medium, discovering that photons of light could be stored within the atoms. During the coherence period, information from the light is transferred to the atoms, and eventually, the process is reversed, allowing the light to be retrieved.

With India rapidly advancing in quantum technology research and development, this ability to store light could play a crucial role in future quantum protocols, including quantum memory and communication systems.