A Mobile Electric Field Sensor Device Based on Optically Levitated Nano-resonators

Abstract

Mobile electric field sensors are indispensable across various domains. Optically levitated nano-resonators have demonstrated unique advantages in electric field sensing, yet their integration remains challenging. By integrating the optical path, circuit, and vacuum systems, we have successfully developed a mobile electric field device based on optically levitated nano-resonators with dimensions under 1,200 mm × 549 mm × 524 mm. The optical probe employs microcrystalline glass with housing dimensions of 60 mm × 70 mm × 200 mm to ensure miniaturization. Simultaneously, to reduce the measurement impact of external electric fields, simulations were also conducted on the structural components inside the chamber. Experimental results demonstrate that the sensor achieves a thermal noise equivalent electric field detection sensitivity of 800 μV/cm/Hz1/2 with optimal sensitivity observed at 129.6 kHz within the low-frequency band. This device provides a new approach to developing mobile electric field sensors operating at frequencies below megahertz and paves a practical path for engineering and practical application of levitated optomechanics in vacuum.