Images of evaporative cooling to Bose-Einstein condensation

Abstract

In this paper, we present the first data from a new double MOT Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC) experiment. To assist new groups in their pursuit of BEC, we present a typical series of absorption images over an evaporative cooling ramp when BEC is reached, and compare this with a second series where the machine fails to reach condensation. All pictures in both series are presented on the same scale allowing the trend in the elastic collision rate as evaporation proceeds to be assessed simply by looking at the pictures. This is a powerful and simple diagnostic that is easily applied in the laboratory when characterizing and trouble shooting a new machine. Show more