Design of a bidimensional magneto-optical trap as a source of cold Dysprosium atoms

• Grant number: 25/07097-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Physics - Atomic and Molecular Physics
• Principal Investigator: Emanuel Alves de Lima Henn
• Grantee: Vinícius Albuquerque de Medeiros Gonçalves
• Host Institution: Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Magneto-optical traps (MOTs) are central tools in experiments involving the cooling and trapping of neutral atoms. In particular, two-dimensional configurations (2D MOTs) have become well-established as efficient intermediate stages between atomic vaporization and subsequent capture in more sophisticated traps. In such systems, the 2D MOT acts as a source of cold atomic beams that can be directed toward a clean chamber where advanced cooling stages are performed. This approach offers significant advantages over traditional methods, such as the Zeeman slower, being more compact, robust, and demanding fewer optical and technical resources.In recent years, the 2D MOT technique has been successfully applied to various atomic species, including, more recently, dysprosium - a lanthanide element known for its complex electronic structure and high vaporization temperature. This demonstration paves the way for its adoption in new experiments involving this element.In the context of this project, we propose the study and planning of the implementation of a two-dimensional magneto-optical trap in our laboratory's experimental system, which currently uses a Zeeman slower to cool dysprosium atoms with limited efficiency. The objective is to assess the feasibility of replacing it with a 2D MOT, taking into account the geometric and instrumental constraints of the current setup. To this end, we will study the physical principles of optical trapping and the specific characteristics of dysprosium, followed by the calculation of relevant parameters - such as magnetic fields and laser beams - required to adapt the technique to our experimental apparatus.