Temperature characterization of a 2D to 3D magneto-optical trap

Magneto-optical traps (MOTs) play a pivotal role in achieving rapid and effective loading of atoms while reducing the energy and temperature of the system. In ultracold atomic physics platforms, the MOT is the initial stage of cooling. This study from our lab at University of San Diego provides a concise overview of MOT physics and discusses the continued progress toward creating and characterizing the temperature of our 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional MOT. We elaborate on the design of the laser system, optics platform, and initial calibration procedures for the system.