Master/Diploma Thesis
Atom interferometry with 39K at the ATLAS experiment
The ATLAS experiment (Atom Laser) is a multi-purpose source for samples of ultra cold rubidium atoms. In 2010 it was used to demonstrate the first Bose Einstein Condensate (BEC) in an optical dipole trap of 2 um wavelength [Phys. Rev. A 83, 035601 (2011)]. Currently it is operated as an atomic gravimeter using atom interferometric techniques based on stimulated Raman transitions for performing high precision acceleration measurements. Recently, earth's gravitational acceleration g has been measured to a preliminary precision of ~0.01 ppm (~10-8 g). In the scope of the QUEST Task Group "Quantum Test of the Equivalence Principle" we will upgrade ATLAS with the additional atomic species of potassium. When operated as a dual species gravimeter ATLAS will enable us to do a Cold Atom Test of the Equivalence Principle (CAPRICE).
Within the scope of the CAPRICE experiment the research group "Atom Optics and Quantum Sensors" lead by Prof. Ernst M. Rasel at the Institute of Quantum Optics and the Cluster of Excellence QUEST offers attractive opportunities for students looking for master thesis.
We are looking for highly motivated master students for the implementation of the second atomic species, the characterization of this system and first measurements with the dual species interferometer.
Previous knowledge of atomic physics, quantum optics and/or gravitational physics is advantageous but not required.
Contact:
Dennis Schlippert, Institute of Quantum Optics, Room D306
Phone: + 49 511 762 19192
Email: schlippert(at)iqo.uni-hannover.de
