As promised, we are back with a green MOT! While careful optimization is still needed, we are happy to report that we have now obtained a green MOT of 174Yb atoms. We are able to switch among different Yb isotopes with ease, so a 171Yb MOT is also in the workings. In the meantime, here is an absorption image of about 2 million trapped Yb atoms. While optimizing the green MOT we are planning the next steps to trap atoms in optical tweezers!

We have achieved a blue MOT of 174Yb atoms! Due to service jobs being done to our 556 nm green laser, we have decided to get the setup ready for a blue MOT instead. Once our green laser will be operational again, we’ll steer towards making a green MOT directly, through the aid of a blue crossed-slowing stage.

We have finished assembling and baking our vacuum system, which is now ready to host laser cooled Yb atoms!

We finally got our new lab room! Will start filling it up soon!

Our atomic source has arrived, as well as the first lasers, and testing is underway!

Special thanks to Yb lab for the hospitality.