The U.S. Army Research Laboratory has been studying Rydberg atoms.  The highly excited atoms are being researched for use in communications receivers.  ARL wants to achieve high data throughput in existing communications networks.  As part of the Army’s “Network C3I Modernization” priorities, the program studying the highly energetic Rydberg atoms, is also looking at numerous other applications.

Report is found here at U.S. ARMY…

“A blue laser light, reflected and aimed with mirrors, travels through a cylindrical glass cell that contains the atoms, which does not resemble a traditional antenna receiver system, scientists said.” (Image Credit Army.mil)