Instrumentation for Rydberg atom's experiments

• Grant number: 15/18420-1
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Effective date (Start): November 01, 2015
• Effective date (End): October 31, 2016
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Principal Investigator: Luis Gustavo Marcassa
• Grantee: João Vitor Ignácio Costa
• Home Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/02816-8 - Manipulation of atomic collisions in optical traps, AP.TEM

Abstract

The Atomic Interactions Laboratory (LIA) has been conducting research on atoms trapped for more than a decade. During this period, we specialize in cold Rydberg atoms and cold molecules in optical dipole traps. Obtaining such samples takes several different experimental techniques for the control and handling thereof. One involves controlling the intensity and spatial shape of light beams at 480 nm for excitation Rydberg atoms. In this project, we will use a spatial light modulator (SLM) to manipulate the laser beam at 480 nm at different spatial configurations. In one, we will produce two Gaussian beams separated by tens of microns. These beams will be used to excite two Rydberg atoms different to a well-controlled distance. In another configuration, we will produce a beam of Laguerre-Gauss, to study its effect on the excitation rate of Rydberg atoms. (AU)