We report phase-coherent Doppler detection of optical dipole forces using
large ion crystals in a Penning trap. The technique is based on laser Doppler
velocimetry using a cycling transition in 9Be+ near 313 nm and the
center-of-mass (COM) ion motional mode. The optical dipole force is tuned to
excite the COM mode, and measurements of photon arrival times synchronized with
the excitation potential show oscillations with a period commensurate with the
COM motional frequency. Experimental results compare well with a quantitative
model for a driven harmonic oscillator. This technique permits characterization
of motional modes in ion crystals; the measurement of both frequency and phase
information relative to the driving force is a key enabling capability --
comparable to lockin detection -- providing access to a parameter that is
typically not available in time-averaged measurements. This additional
information facilitates discrimination of nearly degenerate motional modes.Comment: Related manuscripts at http://www.physics.usyd.edu.au/~mbiercuk