We experimentally demonstrate time-domain storage and retrieval of amp
litude- and phase-encoded optical data, using Raman coherent populatio
n trapping, despite the loss of information about absolute optical pha
ses that occurs as a result of the dissipative nature of the process.
In this Raman optical storage process homogeneous decay of the optical
coherence does not prevent interference between time-separated fields
, thus relaxing the requirement for long-lived optical coherences.