J M Raimond et al 2005 J. Phys. B: At. Mol. Opt. Phys. 38 S535 doi:10.1088/0953-4075/38/9/006
J M Raimond1, T Meunier1, P Bertet1, S Gleyzes1, P Maioli1, A Auffeves1, G Nogues1, M Brune1 and S Haroche1,2
Show affiliationsEinstein often performed thought experiments with 'photon boxes', storing fields for unlimited times. This is yet but a dream. We can nevertheless store quantum microwave fields in superconducting cavities for billions of periods. Using circular Rydberg atoms, it is possible to probe in a very detailed way the quantum state of these trapped fields. Cavity quantum electrodynamics tools can be used for a direct determination of the Husimi Q and Wigner quasi-probability distributions. They provide a very direct insight into the classical or non-classical nature of the field.
42.50.Pq Cavity quantum electrodynamics; micromasers
Issue 9 (14 May 2005)
Received 5 November 2004, in final form 8 December 2004
Published 25 April 2005
J M Raimond et al 2005 J. Phys. B: At. Mol. Opt. Phys. 38 S535
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