Researchers at the University of Warsaw have unveiled a breakthrough method for detecting and precisely calibrating terahertz frequency combs using a quantum antenna made from Rydberg atoms. By combining atomic electrometry with a powerful terahertz-to-light conversion technique, they achieved the first measurement of a single terahertz comb tooth—something previously impossible due to the limits of electronics and optical tools.

“Until recently, the terahertz range was considered a blank area in the electromagnetic spectrum… positioned between microwaves (used, for example, in Wi-Fi) and infrared … it holds immense potential for applications that include inspecting packages without harmful X-rays, superspeed 6G communication, and spectroscopy and imaging of organic compounds…”

  • aesviation@lemmings.worldEnglish
    1·
    2 hours ago

    positioned between microwaves (used, for example, in Wi-Fi) and infrared

    Why would we have difficulty accessing something that’s in between wavelengths we’re already pretty good at manipulating? It seems like this would only be an issue for wavelengths on the extreme ends of the spectrum.