https://doi.org/10.1140/epjqt/s40507-025-00421-7
Research
Robust and compact single-lens crossed-beam optical dipole trap for Bose-Einstein condensation in microgravity
1
Institut für Quantenoptik, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Welfengarten 1, 30167, Hannover, Germany
2
Institut für Satellitengeodäsie und Inertialsensorik (DLR-SI), Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR), Callinstraße 30b, 30167, Hannover, Germany
a
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b
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Received:
21
May
2025
Accepted:
15
September
2025
Published online:
29
September
2025
We present a novel concept for a compact and robust crossed-beam optical dipole trap (cODT) based on a single lens, designed for the efficient generation of Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) under dynamic conditions. The system employs two independent two-dimensional acousto-optical deflectors (AODs) in combination with a single high-numerical-aperture lens to provide full three-dimensional control over the trap geometry, minimizing potential misalignments and ensuring long-term operational stability. By leveraging time-averaged potentials, rapid and efficient evaporative cooling sequences toward BECs are enabled. The functionality of the cODT under microgravity conditions has been successfully demonstrated in the Einstein-Elevator in Hannover, Germany, where the beam intersection was shown to remain stable throughout the microgravity phase of the flight. In addition, the system has been implemented in the sensor head of the INTENTAS project to verify BEC generation. Additional realization of one-, two-, and three-dimensional arrays of condensates through dynamic trap shaping was achieved. This versatile approach allows for advanced quantum sensing applications in mobile and space-based environments based on all-optical BECs.
Key words: Quantum sensing / All-optical BEC generation / Optical dipole trap / Time averaged optical potentials / Microgravity
© The Author(s) 2025
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