Session U4: Focus Session: Cold Rydberg Gases
10:30 AM–12:30 PM, Friday, June 17, 2011
Room: A704
Chair: Michael Noel, Bryn Mawr College
Abstract ID: BAPS.2011.DAMOP.U4.7
Abstract: U4.00007 : Multi-grid experimental apparatus for the study of ultracold Rydberg-Rydberg interaction
12:18 PM–12:30 PM
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Abstract
Authors:
Joshua Gurian
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Paul Huillery
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Yoann Bruneau
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Patrick Cheinet
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Andrea Fioretti
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Daniel Comparat
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
Pierre Pillet
(Laboratoire Aime Cotton, CNRS, Universite de Paris Sud, Orsay, France)
We have designed and constructed a new experimental setup for the study of ultracold Rydberg processes. A cold Cs MOT is centered between four parallel wire mesh grids, with two microchannel plate (MCP) detectors mounted perpendicular to the grids. Use of a phosphor screen behind one of the MCP detectors allows for spatial imaging of the ionized Rydberg atoms. This experimental apparatus allows for the study of both Rydberg many-body physics, as well as ion and electron imaging experiments. By controlling the voltages applied to the grids, ionized Rydberg atoms can be imaged on the MCP. Magnifications greater than ten have been observed, as well as strong focusing. We present initial results from this new experimental setup.
To cite this abstract, use the following reference: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2011.DAMOP.U4.7