Speaker
Description
I will report on the first realisation of a very long and controllable synthetic dimension of atomic harmonic trap states [1]. To create this, we couple trap states by dynamically modulating the trapping potential of the atomic cloud with patterned light. By controlling the detuning between the frequency of the driving potential and the trapping frequency, we implement a controllable force in the synthetic dimension. This induces Bloch oscillations in which atoms move periodically up and down tens of atomic trap states. We experimentally observe the key characteristics of this behaviour in the real space dynamics of the cloud, and verify our observations with numerical simulations and semiclassical theory. This experiment provides an intuitive approach for the manipulation and control of highly-excited trap states, and sets the stage for the future exploration of topological physics in higher dimensions. I will also report on the realization and characterisation of optical potentials for ultracold atoms using a superluminescent diode [2]. The light emitted by this class of diodes is characterised by high spatial coherence but low temporal coherence. On the one hand, this implies that it follows Gaussian propagation similar to lasers, allowing for high intensities and well-collimated beams. On the other, it significantly reduces those interference effects that lead to severe distortions in imaging.
[1] arXiv:2112.10648
[2] arXiv:2109.05096
| Presenter name | Aaron Smith |
|---|---|
| How will you attend ICAP-27? | I am planning on in-person attendance |
