Atom interferometry using σ+-σ- Raman transitions between |F=1,mF=1) and |F=2,mF=±1)

We report on the experimental demonstration of a horizontal accelerometer based on atom interferometry using counterpropagative Raman transitions between the states |F=1,mF=∓1) and |F=2,mF=±1) of Rb87. Compared to the |F=1,mF=0)↔|F=2,mF=0) transition usually used in atom interferometry, our scheme presents the advantages of having only a single counterpropagating transition allowed in a retroreflected geometry, using the same polarization configuration as the magneto-optical trap, and allowing the control of the atom trajectory with magnetic forces. We demonstrate horizontal acceleration measurement in a close-to-zero velocity regime using a single-diffraction Raman process with a short-term sensitivity of 25×10-5 m s-2 Hz-1/2 and resolution down to 3.8×10-6 m s-2 at an integration time of 3300 s. We discuss specific features of the technique such as spontaneous emission, light shifts, and effects of magnetic field inhomogeneities. We finally give possible applications of this technique in metrology or for cold-atom inertial sensors dedicated to onboard applications.