Progress towards a Continuous-Wave BEC

POSTER

Abstract

We report on progress towards a continuous-wave BEC. A currently operational high-gradient magnetic-guide structure provides us with a beam of cold $^{87}$Rb atoms. The atomic flux in the guide is $\sim 2 \times 10^7$~atoms~s$^{-1}$ with a transverse temperature of 420~$\mu$K and a longitudinal temperature of 1~mK. Simulations suggest that an increased input flux in the guide of $10^9$~atoms~s$^{-1}$ at a temperature of 100~$\mu$K combined with continuous evaporative cooling will enable the system to reach quantum degeneracy. We give an overview of the strategies and recent progress towards achieving this goal, including a Zeeman slower atomic beam source, complete optical isolation of the atomic guide from the injection stage using mechanical shutters and surface adsorption evaporative cooling. An outlook on usage of the atom laser in inertial sensor applications involving spiral guide structure will be discussed.

Authors

  • C. Hempel

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109

  • R. Mhaskar

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109

  • M. Traxler

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109

  • V. Vaidya

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109

  • S. Olson

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109

  • G. Raithel

    • FOCUS Center, Physics Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 49109