Abstract

Coherent transient spectroscopy is well understood for two-level systems. The effect was demonstrated for a three-level atom a number of years ago.¹ However, detailed studies have only recently been initiated. Mossberg’s group² recently completed studies of three-level coherent transient spectroscopy of ytterbium, which is not subject to complications associated with optical pumping of hyperfine levels. They employed the photon echo technique using an atomic beam to suppress Doppler broadening. Results were complex and required a new dressed atom model of coherent excitation processes.

© 1987 Optical Society of America