Role of Symmetry Breaking in Observing Strong Molecule-Cavity Coupling Using Dielectric Microspheres

The emergence of dielectric open optical cavities has opened a new research avenue in nanophotonics. In particular, dielectric microspheres support a rich set of cavity modes with varying spectral characteristics, making them an ideal platform to study molecule-cavity interactions. The symmetry of the structure plays a critical role in the outcoupling of these modes and, hence, the perceived molecule-cavity coupling strength. Here, we experimentally and theoretically study molecule-cavity coupling mediated by the Mie scattering modes of a dielectric microsphere placed on a glass substrate and excited with far-field illumination, from which we collect scattering signatures both in the air and glass sides. Glass-side collection reveals clear signatures of strong molecule-cavity coupling (coupling strength 2g = 74 meV), in contrast to the air-side scattering signal. Rigorous electromagnetic modeling allows us to understand molecule-cavity coupling and unravel the role played by the spatial mode profile in the observed coupling strength.

Automated summary

The emergence of dielectric open optical cavities has provided a new research direction in nanophotonics. Dielectric microspheres can support a variety of cavity modes and are ideal for studying molecule-cavity interactions. Understanding molecule-cavity coupling and the role of spatial mode profiles is essential for optimizing the coupling strength.