Analysis of Narrow-Line Laser Cooling and Trapping of Sr Atoms in Microgravity Environments

Obtaining ultracold alkaline earth(-like) atoms in space encounters the problem of performing narrow-line laser cooling in microgravity environments ( μ -gEs). This paper reports an analysis of the magneto-optical trap (MOT) based on the narrow-line transition in 88 Sr, while paying special attention to the role of the gravity. This analysis suggests the MOTs based on narrow-line transitions cannot be cold and dense enough in a μ -gE. We thus propose a strategy: that one can use a dual-frequency MOT to realize a low-temperature, high density, and high transfer efficiency, narrow-line red MOT in μ -gEs.

The optical frequency standard based on strontium cold atoms

The results obtained during the development of an optical frequency standard, based on cold 87Sr atoms are presented. The parameters of experimental optical schemes developed for the realization of all stages of sequential laser cooling and trapping of 87Sr atoms into an optical lattice are described. Clock transition spectroscopy was successfully performed with a spectral transition linewidth of 12 Hz. A measuring scheme based on a femtosecond optical frequency synthesizer has been developed, which makes it possible to compare the optical standard with a hydrogen maser. The created optical frequency standard was included in the primary standard GET 1-2018.