Broadband photon-counting dual-comb spectroscopy with attowatt sensitivity over turbulent optical paths

Abstract Photon-counting dual-comb spectroscopy (DCS) opens new possibilities for deploying DCS in scenarios previously constrained by limited detection sensitivity. However, inevitable optical path fluctuations hinder its practical implementation. Here, we propose a method to ensure the long-term s...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Light: Science & Applications
Main Authors: Wei Zhong, Yingyu Liu, Qin Yin, Ruocan Zhao, Chong Wang, Wei Ren, Xiankang Dou, Xianghui Xue
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Publishing Group 2025-08-01
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-025-01934-7
Description
Summary:Abstract Photon-counting dual-comb spectroscopy (DCS) opens new possibilities for deploying DCS in scenarios previously constrained by limited detection sensitivity. However, inevitable optical path fluctuations hinder its practical implementation. Here, we propose a method to ensure the long-term stability of photon-counting DCS, overcoming turbulent optical paths, achieving attowatt-level detection sensitivity and quick acquisition times. Using a compact all-fiber dual-comb system, we achieve 20 nm broadband DCS of H13C14N across the C-band with an average detected power of only 4 attowatts per-comb line. Despite significant vibrations throughout measurements, the spectra maintain comb-line resolution and shot-noise-limited signal-to-noise ratios. Additionally, the system demonstrates successful deployment in open-path measurements, overcoming 93 dB attenuation. Our approach enables remote sensing of CO2, H2O, and HDO over a continuous 20-h observation period. This method highlights the potential for applications in fields such as metrology, quantum physics, and atmospheric sensing, especially in turbulent environments like open air or water, within a field-deployable system.
ISSN:2047-7538