Automation in quantum logic experiments with cold molecular ions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Modern experiments with cold molecular ions have reached a high degree of complexity requiring frequent sample preparation, state initialization, and protocol execution while demanding precise control over multiple devices and laser sources. To maintain a high experimental duty cycle and robust measurement conditions, automation becomes essential. We present a fully automated control system for the preparation of trapped state-selected molecular ions and subsequent quantum logic-based experiments. Adaptive feedback routines based on real-time image analysis introduce and identify single molecular ions in atomic-ion Coulomb crystals. By appropriate manipulation of the trapping potentials, excess atomic ions are released from the trap to produce dual-species two-ion strings, specifically Ca+-N2+. After mass and state identification of the molecular ion, nanosecond-level synchronization of laser pulses employing the Sinara/ARTIQ framework and real-time data analysis enable quantum-logic-spectroscopic measurements. The present automated control system enables robust, unsupervised operation over extended periods resulting in an increase in the number of experimentation cycles by about a factor of ten compared to manual operation and a factor of about eight in loaded molecules in typical practical situations. The modular, distributed design of the system provides a scalable blueprint for similar molecular-ion experiments.
Source: Review of Scientific Instruments
DOI: 10.1063/5.0309976
Institution: University of Basel
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4415927673
FWCI:
Cites:
Cited by:
Related to: