Guiding of metastable helium atoms through hollow optical fibres

Abstract

Guiding of excited state He atoms through hollow fibers is demonstrated. He atoms in the metastable 2 3S 1 state are employed, utilizing the 1083 nm transition to the 2 3P 2 state to manipulate the atomic trajectories. The fibers comprise fused silica capillaries of both square and circular cross-section. Atoms are transmitted through the fiber when the laser light, either co- or counterpropagating with the atoms, is detuned to the blue of the atomic resonance frequency, thereby creating a repulsive potential. Show more