A reconfigurable blue-detuned lattice for neutral atom quantum computing*

We present a novel approach to forming a blue-detuned optical lattice for single Cesium atoms. This approach makes use of Acousto-Optic Deflectors (AOD) in conjunction with diffractive elements to form a lattice of crossed lines. Due to the frequency shifts introduced by the AOD we eliminate Talbot planes that have posed problems for previous blue-detuned trapping schemes. By using AODs we also gain control over the size and spacing of the traps. The tunability of the size of the trap offers a parameter that can be used to find a magic trapping condition for the ground and Rydberg states of the atom. Additionally, the ability to reconfigure spacing allows us to tune Rydberg interaction strengths. The combination of these degrees of freedom makes this trap ideal for studying quantum computation and simulation with neutral Rydberg atoms.