Berlin 2014 – scientific programme

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A: Fachverband Atomphysik

A 28: Poster: Ultra-cold plasmas and Rydberg systems (with Q)

A 28.8: Poster

Tuesday, March 18, 2014, 16:30–18:30, Spree-Palais

Second-generation apparatus for Rydberg-atoms in a Bose-Einstein condensate — •Udo Hermann, Huan Nguyen, Michael Schlagmüller, Graham Lochead, Robert Löw, Sebastian Hofferberth, and Tilman Pfau — 5. Physikalische Institut, Universität Stuttgart

The giant size and large polarizability of Rydberg-atoms, resulting in strong long-range Rydberg-Rydberg interactions, make them ideal for studying many-body cooperative effects. In particular, the effect of highly excited Rydberg atoms on the density distribution of a Bose-Einstein condensate has opened the door to study Rydberg electron wave functions. In addition, Förster like energy transport in light harvesting complexes can be simulated with this system.

Here we present a new experimental apparatus for the creation and dynamic study of Rydberg-atoms in dense, ultra-cold atomic ensembles. Specific design goals of this new setup are single ion-detection capability, sub-micron optical resolution, precise electric field control and high flexibility in creating both magnetic and optical trapping potentials. We discuss how these different aspects are combined in a single, compact experimental realization and present the first results.