A dynamic magneto-optical trap for atom chips. (9th November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rushton, Jo; Roy, Ritayan; Bateman, James; Himsworth, Matt
• Is Part Of: New journal of physics. Volume 18:Number 11(2016:Nov.)
• Publication Date: 2016-11-09
• Subjects: Laser cooling -- atom cooling methods -- magneto optical traps -- atom traps and guides; 37.10.De -- 37.10.Gh; Physics -- Periodicals; Physics; Periodicals; 530.05
• DOI: 10.1088/1367-2630/18/11/113020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1367-2630

Abstract

Abstract: We describe a dynamic magneto-optical trap (MOT) suitable for the use with vacuum systems in which optical access is limited to a single window. This technique facilitates the long-standing desire of producing integrated atom chips, many of which are likely to have severely restricted optical access compared with conventional vacuum chambers. This 'switching-MOT' relies on the synchronized pulsing of optical and magnetic fields at audio frequencies. The trap's beam geometry is obtained using a planar mirror surface, and does not require a patterned substrate or bulky optics inside the vacuum chamber. Central to the design is a novel magnetic field geometry that requires no external quadrupole or bias coils which leads toward a very compact system. We have implemented the trap for 85 Rb and shown that it is capable of capturing 2 million atoms and directly cooling below the Doppler temperature.