High-flux atom source for cold atom experiments
The CASC – Cold Atom Source Cell by Infleqtion is a compact UHV component for generating intense beams of laser-cooled atoms. It was specially designed for operation as 2D+ magneto-optical trap (MOT) develops and enables atomic flows on the scale of 10⁹ atoms per second.
The CASC serves as a source for downstream cold-atom experiments and can be integrated directly into existing ultra-high vacuum systems via a standardized CF connection. The underlying architecture is also used by Infleqtion in its proven two-chamber systems RuBECi and doubleMOT used.
2D+ MOT for high atom fluxes
The Cold Atom Source Cell is for the construction of a 2D+ MOT optimized. Laser light and a corresponding magnetic field cool the atoms emerging from the integrated atomic source and form a directed beam of cold atoms.
Typically, atomic fluxes are 1 × 10⁹ atoms/s reached. Depending on the 2D MOT laser parameters used, the longitudinal exit velocity typically lies between 10 and 20 m/s. The atomic beam has a typical divergence of about 4° full angle.
integrated differential pumping stage
A key feature of CASC is the integrated differential compression stage. A silicon plate with an aperture of 0.75 mm separates the relatively higher operating pressure of the 2D+ MOT from the downstream UHV experiment.
This allows an atomic density suitable for a high atomic flux to be generated in the source cell, while significantly lower pressures can be maintained in the connected science region for long storage and coherence times.
Rubidium and cesium
The CASC can with up to two pre-installed alkali atom sources be equipped. Configurations are available for:
- Rubidium (Rb)
- Cesium (Cs)
- two rubidium sources
- two cesium sources
- combined rubidium-cesium configuration
This allows the atom source to be adapted to different cold-atom experiments and research platforms.
Compact UHV integration
With dimensions of only 30 × 30 × 94.6 mm the CASC has a very compact design. The vacuum connection is made via a standard DN16-CF flange (1.33″); an adapter plate to 2.75″ is also available.
The construction is without epoxides or glass frits built up and can up to 225 °C be baked out. This makes the Source Cell suitable for demanding UHV setups in research and quantum technology.
Typical applications
- 2D+ magneto-optical traps
- Atom sources for 3D MOT systems
- Bose-Einstein condensation
- Cold and ultracold atom experiments
- atom interferometry
- Quantum sensing
- Neutral atom quantum technology
- Development of compact atomic physics systems
CASC as part of a modular cold-atom platform
CASC can be combined with other Infleqtion components to form a modular atom source. These include in particular the 2D+ MOT Magnet Assembly as well as the photonic integrated MagpiesBeam guidance systems.
The Picas systems provide the required 2D+ MOT beam geometry from three fiber-coupled laser inputs and, together with the CASC, also achieve atomic fluxes of more than 10⁹ atoms/s. This allows for the construction of a largely pre-configured cold atom source.
Soliton supports you with the configuration of the CASC as well as with the selection of suitable vacuum, magnetic, optical, and cold-atom components for your experimental setup.
