2D Magneto-Optical Trapping of Diatomic Molecules
Abstract
We demonstrate one- and two-dimensional transverse laser cooling and magneto-optical trapping of the polar molecule yttrium (II) oxide (YO). In a 1D magneto-optical trap (MOT), we characterize the magneto-optical trapping force and decrease the transverse temperature by an order of magnitude, from 25 to 2 mK, limited by interaction time. In a 2D MOT, we enhance the intensity of the YO beam and reduce the transverse temperature in both transverse directions. The approach demonstrated here can be applied to many molecular species and can also be extended to 3D.
- Publication:
-
Physical Review Letters
- Pub Date:
- April 2013
- DOI:
- arXiv:
- arXiv:1209.4069
- Bibcode:
- 2013PhRvL.110n3001H
- Keywords:
-
- 37.10.Mn;
- 37.10.Pq;
- 37.10.Vz;
- Slowing and cooling of molecules;
- Trapping of molecules;
- Mechanical effects of light on atoms molecules and ions;
- Physics - Atomic Physics;
- Physics - Chemical Physics
- E-Print:
- 13 pages, 4 main figures, 3 supplementary figures