The Dual MOT Atom Chip Miniature Vacuum Cell

This work studies key issues facing the practical utilization and commercialization of a miniature atom chip vacuum system. The system consists of a two-dimensional magneto-optic trap (MOT) forming a cold atom beam that is recaptured by a 6-beam MOT in an ultrahigh vacuum region of the system. A miniature ion pump and non-evaporable getters sustain the ultrahigh vacuum. The atom chip serves to seal one end of the vacuum cell, thereby providing superb optical and electrical access to the atoms. We propose accelerated aging and rubidium loading tests and a theoretical investigation of the design of an aperture that joins the two-dimensional MOT chamber with the 6-beam MOT chamber. We also investigate the possible use of a rubidium getter to reduce the load on the ion pump. The objective is to define a design for a miniature atom chip vacuum system capable of sustaining a 10 s MOT lifetime with such performance maintained for at least one year.