Spectroscopy of Rubidium atoms in RF plasma

We discuss recent advances in electrode-free, in-situ electric field sensing in low-temperature plasmas using Rydberg electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). Understanding the interaction between discharge plasmas and excitation levels of alkali atoms is essential for developing Rydberg-EIT as a diagnostic tool for plasma electric field sensing. We examine the dynamics of Rubidium atoms in a pulsed RF plasma through sub-Doppler and EIT spectroscopy. The RF discharge is generated in an inductively coupled plasma chamber containing a few mTorr of Argon seeded with Rubidium vapor. Time-resolved measurements of Rubidium density within the discharge volume exhibit signatures of plasma-induced atomic desorption and Penning ionization driven by Argon metastable atoms. We present progress toward electric field sensing using EIT spectroscopy and discuss future implications for plasma diagnostics