A scanning quantum cryogenic atom microscope at 6 K

Abstract

The Scanning Quantum Cryogenic Atom Microscope (SQCRAMscope) is a quantum sensor in which a quasi-1D quantum gas images electromagnetic fields emitted from a nearby sample. We report improvements to the microscope. Cryogen usage is reduced by replacing the liquid cryostat with a closed-cycle system and modified cold finger, and cryogenic cooling is enhanced by adding a radiation shield. The minimum accessible sample temperature is reduced from 35~K to 5.7~K while maintaining low sample vibrations. A new sample mount is easier to exchange, and quantum gas preparation is streamlined.

Using graphene conductors to enhance the functionality of atom chips

“…The high level of uniformity and homogeneity of cold atomic ensembles also provides a platform for high-accuracy time standards [3,4]. Recent experiments have demonstrated atomic quantum sensors in precision accelerometers [5], clocks [6], and in measuring magnetic fields with an unprecedented combination of high sensitivity (nT), spatial resolution (µm), and field of view (∼ 100 µm) [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]. As a result, there is now worldwide activity on the development of cold-atom based quantum sensing and timing technologies [15,16].…”

Quantum Gas-Enabled Direct Mapping of Active Current Density in Percolating Networks of Nanowires

“…Our approach exploits the capability of quantum gases, such as Bose–Einstein condensates (BEC), to detect ultralow magnetic fields. BEC microscopy (BEC-M) − offers a unique combination of microscopic resolution, subnanoampere sensitivity, and tunable dynamic range. In addition, it is possible to map active current distributions in a single imaging shot rather than by time-consuming scans.…”