Atoms in the Lowest Motional Band of a Three-Dimensional Optical Lattice (original) (raw)

This research investigates the storage and manipulation of atoms in a three-dimensional optical lattice by utilizing laser cooling techniques and light detuned to the blue of an atomic transition. Specifically, Argon atoms are trapped and prepared in the motional ground band of the lattice, demonstrating a novel loading scheme that enables continuous or repetitive atom loading. Band-dependent loss mechanisms are observed, leading to a clear distinction in atomic populations across different bands during time-of-flight analysis, reaffirming the quantization of motion within the lattice.