Three imaging methods for lattice-trapped ultracold gases

An optical lattice is a versatile technique to control the mobility of atoms and enhance interatomic interactions. A Bose-Einstein condensate confined in optical lattices has attracted much attention for its abilities to simulate condensed matter models. We have developed and compared three different methods for detecting lattice-trapped sodium Bose-Einstein condensates. Our study shows that the in-situ imaging implemented with a digital micro-mirror device can provide a few interesting advantages. These detecting methods may be applicable to other optically trappable atomic species and molecules.