Off-resonant defocus-contrast imaging of cold atoms

We demonstrate the retrieval of column-density images of cold atoms, using a noninterferometric phase-recovery technique based on a single off-resonant and defocused intensity image. The quantitative column density is retrieved via Fourier inversion and remains robust with respect to detuning and de...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inOptics letters Vol. 29; no. 3; p. 232
Main Authors Turner, Lincoln D, Weber, Karl P, Paganin, David, Scholten, Robert E
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.02.2004
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Summary:We demonstrate the retrieval of column-density images of cold atoms, using a noninterferometric phase-recovery technique based on a single off-resonant and defocused intensity image. The quantitative column density is retrieved via Fourier inversion and remains robust with respect to detuning and defocus. The technique offers excellent prospects for simple, nondestructive imaging of atoms in magnetic and optical traps and condensates.
ISSN:0146-9592
DOI:10.1364/ol.29.000232