Towards trapping of single neutral atoms in 3D-printed optical tweezers

Trapping of single ultracold atoms is an important tool for applications ranging from quantum computation and communication to sensing. However, one of the main disadvantages of most experimental setups is their large size and high level of complexity. Here we report on the progress towards integrating a 3D printed optical tweezer with a rubidium magneto-optical trap. The tweezer is formed by micrometer scale lenses that are fabricated directly onto the tip of a standard optical fiber. Its unique properties will make it possible to both trap single atoms and collect their fluorescence with high efficiency. Based on this, a single photon source can be realized that will have versatile applications in quantum information processing.