Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation
  • Featured in Physics
  • Editors' Suggestion

Spectroscopy of He4 at 0.25 ppt Uncertainty and Improved Alpha-Helion Charge-Radius Difference Determination

K. Steinebach, J. C. J. Koelemeij, H. L. Bethlem, and K. S. E. Eikema*

  • *Contact author: k.s.e.eikema@vu.nl

Phys. Rev. Lett. 136, 243001 – Published 18 June, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/rwg9-my6x

Abstract

High-precision spectroscopy of simple atomic systems can be used to advance the theory of atomic energy levels but can also serve as a sensitive probe of nuclear charge radii. For this last purpose, we report an improved measurement of the 2S31→2S10 transition frequency in He4 with 48 Hz uncertainty (0.25 ppt), using a Bose-Einstein condensed sample confined in a magic-wavelength optical dipole trap. A systematic Doppler shift from condensate motion is suppressed by time-resolved ion detection, and the transition frequency is calibrated via a White Rabbit link to a remote active hydrogen maser clock. Combined with previous He3 measurements and improved theory, we obtain the most precise determination to date of the charge-radius difference between the helion and alpha particle (rh2−rα2) of 1.0676(10)  fm2. This is consistent with other recent determinations and confirms that the current discrepancy between QED theory and experimentally observed ionization energies of excited states in helium is not apparent in the isotope shift.

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

synopsis

Helium Spectroscopy Hits Record Precision

Published 18 June, 2026

Improved measurements of an electronic transition in helium-4 atoms constrain the size difference between helium-4 and helium-3 nuclei.

See more in Physics

Authorization Required

We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

Supplemental Material (Subscription Required)

References (Subscription Required)

Outline

Information

Sign In to Your Journals Account

Filter

Filter

Article Lookup

Enter a citation