We trap neutral Cs atoms in a two-dimensional optical lattice and cool them close to the zero point of motion by resolved-sideband Raman cooling. Sideband cooling occurs via transitions between the vibrational manifolds associated with a pair of magnetic sublevels, and the required Raman coupling is provided by the lattice potential itself. We obtain mean vibrational excitations ${\overline{n}}_{x}\ensuremath{\approx}{\overline{n}}_{y}<0.024$, corresponding to a population $>95%$ in the vibrational ground state. Atoms in the ground state of an optical lattice provide a new system in which to explore quantum state control and subrecoil laser cooling.We trap neutral Cs atoms in a two-dimensional optical lattice and cool them close to the zero point of motion by resolved-sideband Raman cooling. Sideband cooling occurs via transitions between the vibrational manifolds associated with a pair of magnetic sublevels, and the required Raman coupling is provided by the lattice potential itself. We obtain mean vibrational excitations ${\overline{n}}_{x}\ensuremath{\approx}{\overline{n}}_{y}<0.024$, corresponding to a population $>95%$ in the vibrational ground state. Atoms in the ground state of an optical lattice provide a new system in which to explore quantum state control and subrecoil laser cooling.

arXiv:quant-ph/9801025Physical Review LettersMay 11, 1998245 citations

Cooling Dynamics in Optical Lattices

S. L. Rolston, Georg A. Raithel, G. Birkl +2 more

APSApr 1, 19970 citations

>95%

in the vibrational ground state. Atoms in the ground state of an optical lattice provide a new system in which to explore quantum state control and subrecoil laser cooling.