Hybrid Optical and Magnetic Ultracold Atom Chip System

ABSTRACT: This work proposes the design of a complete, compact, hybrid atom chip system for producing ultracold atoms, allowing subsequent control and manipulation of ultracold atoms using both optical and magnetic fields. Its emphasis is on optical lattice potentials and also complex potentials imposed by spatially varying magnetic and optical fields. Atom chips that incorporate optical windows enable high optical numerical aperture access to ultracold atoms residing in a high vacuum system. High resolution optical control and imaging can be obtained using commercially available microscope objectives that reside outside of the miniature vacuum cell. The proposed system is capable of generating ultracold atoms with a repetition rate under 5s. This work will enable scientific research as well as applied research and development of optical lattices, atomtronics, and related ultracold matter systems. BENEFIT: This work establishes the design foundation for building a compact rubidium-based ultracold matter system capable of rapid BEC production. The unique feature of this system is its ability to provide simultaneous high special resolution magnetic and optical control of ultracold atoms, while also enabling high resolution in-trap optical imaging. This work emphasizes the ability to generate and study optical lattices and similar structures having both fundamental and applied interest. With the ability of a user to design custom atom chips, the system can greatly streamline experimental as well as practically motivated research and development efforts.