Update

Hey guys - so quick update on what's about: I'm currently taking a "break" from lab activities (sadly); actually it's not so much a break but a gallivant on the terrains of physics - which is a pathetic way of saying that I'm revising/preparing for an upcoming exam. Meanwhile all the vacuum components of my experiment are coming in which is really exciting! I'm looking forward to building it. The design is still under radar so I can't post it - but stay tuned and I promise that by mid-September I'll have the 3D model up for both our experiments, and MAN ARE THEY PRETTY!

While you are waiting, I recommend listening to Ravi Shankar's Live at the Monterey (esp. Raga Bhimpalashree(or si) - Ravi call's it si) - you guys are well aware of my love for classical music! Also please post your thoughts - that way we'll have a regular dialogue. I'm available on the blog almost 24/7.

Hope all of you are doing well - and as always keep me posted!

Department of Energy Funding!

We won another grant, this time specifically for my primary experiment that is to do with Atomic Chip Microscopy!!! We are very excited as this grant will really help us with our experiments.

This grant was from the generous folks at the Department of Energy, who not only fulfilled our wishes but in-fact went above and beyond! Trust me guys, it's a HUGE grant!

MOT

New images of the MOT: the bright glow in the center is due to light scattered by the Dysprosium atoms trapped at the center of the MOT. It's HUGE - I can't reveal numbers yet, so wait for our paper! Note that the image is saturated because the scattered light is so bright. Look up our website for better photos later.

Light Saber?

This is a view of 421 nm light being scattered by the atoms as it travels through the zeeman slower beam. It reminds me of the light saber from Star Wars.

Note: All experiment related images etc. are copyright LevLab. If you want to use them you have to ask permission from my advisor, Dr. Benjamin Lev first!

Check out how intense the blue beam is, it's about 1 Watt of 421 nm light.

More pics of the Laser System

Entire system - the blue glow is absolutely spectacular in real life. Actually, it's more towards the violet side of the spectrum. Unfortunately, the color does not show up right in the camera.

As a point of information, if any of that beam hits your eyes - you go blind. The glow itself is diffused enough not to be a problem, but we wear special protective glasses anyway.

The following pictures from actual experimental runs. Mingwu had just integrated our second laser system for the Zeeman Slower beam.