Compact and robust diode laser system technology for dual-species ultracold atom experiments with rubidium and potassium in microgravity

Appl Opt. 2019 Jul 10;58(20):5456-5464. doi: 10.1364/AO.58.005456.

Abstract

We present a compact and robust distributed-feedback diode laser system architecture for ultracold atom experiments with K41 and Rb87 in a mobile setup operating at the ZARM drop tower in Bremen. Our system withstands DC accelerations of up to 43 g in operation with only minor adjustments over several drop campaigns. Micro-integrated master-oscillator-power-amplifier modules in conjunction with miniaturized, free-space opto-mechanics are integrated on a platform with a volume of 43 L. With compact control and driver electronics, this laser system features output power and spectral characteristics suitable for 2D+ and 3D magneto-optical trapping operation, atomic state preparation, Bragg-diffraction-based atom interferometry, and detection.