Photoionization of Lanthanum

Trapped atomic ions are one of the key physical systems for the development of optical clocks, sensors, and other quantum technology. Photoionization can enable deterministic loading of ion traps with isotope selectivity and reduced vacuum contamination compared to e-gun and direct laser ablation techniques. In this work, we investigate photoionization of lanthanum. Neutral atoms are generated by laser ablation of a metal target using 532 nm pulses from a Q-switched YAG laser. Using a custom-built extended cavity diode laser operating near 408 nm to drive a two-photon, resonantly-assisted transition, we explore lanthanum ion production and trapping.