Compact magneto-optical sources of slow atoms

J. Arlt, Onofrio M. Maragò, S. C. Webster +2 more

E. S. Aleinikova, E.V. Ivanchenko, D. S. Kupalov +1 more

SummaryOne of the key elements of atomic sensors is a cold-atom source. It should be relatively simple, controllable, robust and compact. Conical magneto-optical trap (MOT) can become a useful tool for such devices as an atomic fountain, a gravimeter. We have developed and investigated the conical magneto-optical trap as a source of slow atoms on the rubidium fountain.

E. S. Aleinikova, D. S. Kupalov, E.V. Ivanchenko

Currently, the field of quantum frequency standards based on cold atoms is actively developing. Сold atoms underlie the creation of such quantum gravimetric sensors as atomic gravimeters, atomic gradiometers and atomic gyroscopes. One of the key elements of these sensors is the source of cold atoms, which must provide a sufficient flow of cooled atoms. This paper presents the development of a compact source of Rb87 atoms based on a conical magnetooptical trap, which significantly simplifies the optical scheme by replacing the multipath system with a single conical reflector. The developed compact source is used in fountain-type frequency standards. The scheme, principle of operation, design features and experimental characteristics of a source of slow atoms are given. The results of a study of the operating parameters of a source of slow atoms based on a conical magneto-optical trap and the characteristics of its output atomic beam are presented: the estimated number of trapped atoms in the conical region of the trap, the average atomic flow velocity, and the dependence of the characteristics of the output atomic beam on the operating parameters of the trap. These characteristics demonstrate the possibility of using a conical magneto-optical trap as a source of slow atoms in modern fountain-type frequency standards and other atomic sensors.

B. N. Jagatap, K. G. Manohar, Sanjay G. Nakhate +2 more

E.S. Aleinikova, E.V. Ivanchenko, D. S. Kupalov

Compact and robust magneto-optical trap (MOT) with simple design has obvious advantage in the development of atomic sensors. One of the key elements of atomic fountains is a cold-atom source. We have developed and investigated the conical magneto-optical trap as a source of slow atoms.

J. F. Chen, M. M. T. Loy, George K. Wong +1 more