An atomic beam source for fast loading of a magneto-optical trap under high vacuum.
We report on a directional atomic beam created using an alkali metal dispenser and a nozzle. By applying a high current (15 A) pulse to the dispenser at room temperature we can rapidly heat it to a temperature at which it starts dispensing, avoiding the need for preheating. The atomic beam produced is capable of loading 90% of a magneto-optical trap (MOT) in less than 7 s while maintaining a low vacuum pressure of <10(-11) Torr. The transverse velocity components of the atomic beam are measured to be within typical capture velocities of a rubidium MOT. Finally, we show that the atomic beam can be turned off within 1.8 s.
Jack Dodd Centre for Quantum Technology, Department of Physics, University of Otago, New Zealand.
Peter D
PD
McDowall
Tzahi
T
Grünzweig
Andrew
A
Hilliard
Mikkel F
MF
Andersen