A simple, powerful diode laser system for atomic physics

Area of Science:

• Atomic Physics
• Laser Spectroscopy
• Quantum Optics

Background:

• External-cavity diode lasers are widely used but can be expensive for high-power needs.
• Complex setups involving seed lasers, injection-locking, and amplifiers increase cost and complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a high-power, single-diode laser design.
• To offer a more affordable and simpler alternative for high-power laser applications in atomic physics.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel single-diode laser architecture.
• Characterization of laser specifications including power, linewidth, mode purity, and tuning range.
• Demonstration of atom collection capabilities in a magneto-optical trap.

Main Results:

• Achieved >210 mW power, 100 ms-linewidth (427±7) kHz, >99% mode purity, 10 GHz mode-hop-free tuning, and 12 nm coarse tuning.
• Demonstrated sufficient power to collect 10^10 Rubidium-87 atoms.
• Outlined simple methods for spectral purity and linewidth determination.

Conclusions:

• The developed single-diode laser provides a high-power, cost-effective solution.
• The laser design is suitable for atomic physics experiments, including magneto-optical traps.
• The system is adaptable to other atomic species and diode laser architectures with appropriate modifications.