High speed spatially multimode Lambda-type atomic memory with arbitrary frequency detuning

TLDR: In this article, a general model for an atomic memory using ultra-short pulses of light, which allows both spatial and temporal multimode storage, is presented, which is valid for any frequency detuning, from the resonant case to the Raman case, and allows a detailed optimization of the memory efficiency.

Abstract: We present a general model for an atomic memory using ultra-short pulses of light, which allows both spatial and temporal multimode storage. The process involves the storage of a faint quantum light pulse into the spin coherence of the ground state of Lambda-type 3-level atoms, in the presence of a strong driving pulse. Our model gives a full description of the evolution of the field and of the atomic coherence in space and time throughout the writing and the read-out processes. It is valid for any frequency detuning, from the resonant case to the Raman case, and allows a detailed optimization of the memory efficiency.