Work

Optical levitation using broadband light

Year: 2020

Type: article

Abstract: The ability to create dynamic, tailored optical potentials has become important across fields ranging from biology to quantum science. We demonstrate a method for the creation of arbitrary optical tweezer potentials using the broadband spectral profile of a superluminescent diode combined with the chromatic aberration of a lens. A tunable filter, typically used for ultrafast laser pulse shaping, allows us to manipulate the broad spectral profile and therefore the optical tweezer potentials formed by focusing of this light. We characterize these potentials by measuring the Brownian motion of levitated nanoparticles in vacuum and also demonstrate interferometric detection and feedback cooling of the particle’s motion. This simple and cost-effective technique will enable wide application and allow rapid modulation of the optical potential landscape in excess of megahertz frequencies.

Source: Optica

DOI: 10.1364/optica.392210

Authors: A. T. M. Anishur Rahman, P. F. Barker

Language: English

Topic: Orbital Angular Momentum in Optics

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,208

Funder: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council

Awards: G2285988359, Laser refrigeration on the nanoscale: From nanocryostats to quantum optomechanics, Quantum Cavity Optomechanics of Levitated Nanoparticles: from Foundations to Technologies, G795331755