Characterization of a laser-cooled atomic beam
Department
Physics
Major
Physics
Research Advisor
Fischer, Daniel
Advisor's Department
Physics
Funding Source
FYRE Project
Abstract
In Dr. Fisher’s lab, lithium ions are cooled near to absolute zero using laser radiation so that they may be manipulated and observed interacting with external fields. The atomic beam that is used to load a magneto-optical trap is currently the largest limiting factor in the efficiency of the overall experiment. In this research project, a measuring scheme is developed so that the atom flux, mean-velocity and temperature of the atomic beam can be accurately determined. Once these values and their dependence on the experimental parameters are fully analyzed, methods for optimization of the atom source performance can be developed and implemented.
Biography
Katrina Compton is completing her first year at Missouri University of Science and Technology after transferring from Ozarks Technical Community College. Currently a sophomore working towards her undergraduate degree in Physics, this is her first research opportunity and she is looking forward to working on more projects in the future.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Poster
Location
Upper Atrium
Presentation Date
17 Apr 2018, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Characterization of a laser-cooled atomic beam
Upper Atrium
In Dr. Fisher’s lab, lithium ions are cooled near to absolute zero using laser radiation so that they may be manipulated and observed interacting with external fields. The atomic beam that is used to load a magneto-optical trap is currently the largest limiting factor in the efficiency of the overall experiment. In this research project, a measuring scheme is developed so that the atom flux, mean-velocity and temperature of the atomic beam can be accurately determined. Once these values and their dependence on the experimental parameters are fully analyzed, methods for optimization of the atom source performance can be developed and implemented.
