Towards Atom Interferometry using Bose-Einstein Condensates

Just as the laser revolutionized optical interferometry, it can be hoped that Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC) will permit great advances in atom interferometry. Potential applications include inertial navigation, oil exploration, and measurements of chemical interactions. However, BEC interferometry also presents substanital challenges. Experiments to date have been limited to propagation times of about 10 ms, which is too short for precision measurements. It is thought that interatomic interactions are the main limiting factor. We will describe our recent implementation of a BEC apparatus including a novel waveguide structure that is capable of confining atoms at very low densities to avoid interaction effects. We will also report on our efforts to observe interference in this device.