Abstract

In the last few years the idea of using trapped neutral atoms to produce cold Rydberg atoms has drawn special attention. Conventional techniques to study Rydberg atoms using thermal atoms have limitations imposed by velocity dependent and collisional effects. With the advent of the Magneto-Optical Trap (MOT) cold samples of Rydberg atoms, which are naturally Doppler-free, can now be produced. This achievement opens a complete new area where several different experiments can be carried out, ex: collisions, high resolution microwave spectroscopy, lifetime measurements, etc.

© 1999 Optical Society of America