Electrostatic Rydberg-atom mirror reflects hydrogen

Sept. 1, 2006
Adding to the repertoire of atomic optics, in which atoms are manipulated as if they were photons (see “Coherent atoms are on the move,” p. 97) researchers at ETH Zürich (Zurich, Switzerland) have created a normal-incidence atom mirror.

Adding to the repertoire of atomic optics, in which atoms are manipulated as if they were photons (see “Coherent atoms are on the move,” p. 97) researchers at ETH Zürich (Zurich, Switzerland) have created a normal-incidence atom mirror. The device works with Rydberg atoms (in this case, hydrogen), which have at least one orbital electron excited to a very high quantum state, making the atoms easily influenced by external electric fields. The electrostatic mirror consists of four electrodes that create an electric field of about 2000 V/cm.

Distance from the excitation point (mm)

Click here to enlarge image

Hydrogen atoms in a supersonic flow were created by photolysis of ammonia with a 193 nm excimer laser. Counterpropagating UV and vacuum-UV laser beams then photoexcited the atoms to the n = 27 Stark state. Initially moving at 720 m/s, the Rydberg atoms were stopped by the mirror 1.9 mm away from the spot where they were photoexcited, and were reflected back to their original position in about 9.8 µs. The mirror also focused the atom cloud in one dimension. The atom cloud was imaged by suddenly ionizing the atoms with an electric-field pulse, making the cloud visible on a phosphor screen. Contact Edward Vliegen at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

Achromatic Lenses: High-Quality Custom Optics

March 13, 2025
Ensure clarity and accuracy in your optics systems with Lacroix’s achromatic lenses. Explore how our custom solutions minimize chromatic aberration for perfect results.

Manufacturing Considerations for Tolerancing Aspheres

March 13, 2025
Understand the critical factors in manufacturing aspheres and how Lacroix Optics ensures precise tolerancing in every optical component.

Explore Our Videos: Insights into Precision Optics

March 13, 2025
Get an inside look at Lacroix Optics with our collection of informative videos showcasing our capabilities, innovations, and processes.

Optical Assemblies: Reliable and Precise Solutions

March 13, 2025
Ensure your optical system works seamlessly with Lacroix Optics' custom optical assemblies. Discover the precision and reliability we bring to every project.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!