Digital micromirror device optical potentials for simulating strong-field ultrafast dynamics

Analog quantum simulation of ultrafast electronic dynamics of atoms in strong laser fields using trapped ultracold atoms can yield tunable access to ultrafast-equivalent processes at much more accessible time scales. Here we describe an optical setup using a digital micromirror device (DMD) for simulating strong field atom-light interactions using trapped ultracold strontium. We detail the use and optimization of a DMD with coherent light to shape a linear intensity gradient spatial profile that is robust against noise and aberration. We demonstrate how an iterative algorithm can be used to improve light pattern fidelity and achieve target accuracy in the potential applied to the atoms.