Atomic spectroscopy and quantum optics in hollow-core waveguides

Atomic spectroscopy is a well-established, integral part of the physicist's toolbox with an extremely broad range of applications ranging from astronomy to single atom quantum optics. While highly desirable, miniaturization of atomic spectroscopy techniques on the chip scale was hampered by the apparent incompatibility of conventional solid-state integrated optics and gaseous media. Here, the state of the art of atomic spectroscopy in hollow-core optical waveguides is reviewed The two main approaches to confining light in low index atomic vapors are described: hollow-core photonic crystal fiber (HC-PCF) and planar antiresonant reflecting optical waveguides (ARROWs). Waveguide design, fabrication, and characterization are reviewed along with the current performance as compact atomic spectroscopy devices. The article specifically focuses on the realization of quantum interference effects in alkali atoms which may enable radically new optical devices based on low-level nonlinear interactions on the single photon level for frequency standards and quantum communication systems. (C) 2010 by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim