Observation of cumulative spatial focusing of atoms.
We report an experimental study of the spatial distribution of ultracold cesium atoms exposed to a series of kicks from a standing wave of light. We observe cumulative focusing, leading to a spatial array of atoms which is of interest for atomic lithography. To observe the spatial distribution, we developed a free-space measurement technique that enables the reconstruction of the atomic motion as a function of time. We find increased focusing of atoms after as many as ten kicks, and the results are in good agreement with theoretical predictions.
Oskay
Windell H
WH
Center for Nonlinear Dynamics and Department of Physics, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712-1081, USA.
Steck
Daniel A
DA
Raizen
Mark G
MG