Simple method for generating Bose-Einstein condensates in a weak hybrid trap

We report on a simple trapping scheme for the generation of Bose-Einstein condensates of Rb87 atoms. This scheme employs a near-infrared single-beam optical dipole trap combined with a weak magnetic quadrupole field as used for magneto-optical trapping to enhance the confinement in axial direction. Efficient forced evaporative cooling to the phase transition is achieved in this weak hybrid trap via reduction of the laser intensity of the optical dipole trap at constant magnetic field gradient.