Innovations in gMOT Cooling Techniques for Quantum Sensing Applications

Grating Magneto-Optical Traps (gMOTs) are increasingly utilised in quantum research as they enable compact design and provide excellent optical access. These are advantageous for portable cold-atom quantum sensors. At the University of Strathclyde, our research has expanded on Rb gMOT-based techniques, and some of our advances are presented here. These include launching cold-atom fountains from gMOTs^[1], and leveraging gMOT optics as versatile reflectors to construct 1-D, 2-D, and 3-D optical lattices. We also present optical studies into adapting the technology for other atomic species^[2], and analyse how macroscopic geometry influences atom cooling efficiency in MOTs, regular optical molasses, and grey optical molasses. This presentation will detail these individual advancements and discuss their implications in the broader context of quantum sensing technologies. Our findings shed light on the multifaceted applications of gMOTs and contribute to an enhanced understanding of their cooling capabilities.