Optical-atomic system integration and calibration: Pumping from 1 atm to 1 × 10−11 Torr in 24 h
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Ultracold atoms exquisitely controlled by lasers are the quantum foundation, particularly for sensing, timekeeping, and computing, of state-of-the-art quantum science and technology. However, the laboratory-scale infrastructure for such optical-atomic quantum apparatus rarely translates into commercial applications. A promising solution is miniaturizing the optical layouts onto a chip-scale device integrated with cold atoms inside a compact ultra-high vacuum (UHV) chamber. For prototyping purposes, however, rapidly loading or exchanging test photonic devices into a UHV chamber is limited by the evacuation time from atmospheric pressures to the optimal pressures for ultracold atoms of 1 × 10-11 Torr, a process that typically takes weeks or months without cryogenics. Here, we present a loadlock apparatus and loading procedure capable of venting, exchanging, and evacuating back to <1×10-11 Torr in under 24 h. Our system allows for rapid testing and benchmarking of various photonic devices with ultracold atoms.
Source: Review of Scientific Instruments
DOI: 10.1063/5.0231241
Authors: Grady Kestler, Khang Ton, Julio T. Barreiro
Institution: University of California San Diego
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Office of Naval Research
Awards: G3680410805, G8006577219, G8876996369
OpenAlex ID: W4403215653