Magic-wavelength nanofiber-based two-color dipole trap with sub-$\lambda/2$ spacing

Abstract

We report on the realization and characterization of a novel magic-wavelength nanofiber-based two-color optical dipole trap for cesium that allows us to generate two diametral periodic one-dimensional arrays of trapping sites with a spacing significantly smaller than half the resonant free-space wavelength of the cesium D2 transition. This is achieved by launching a blue-detuned partial standing wave and two red-detuned light fields through the nanofiber. We trap and optically interface the atoms in the resulting periodic optical potential and characterize the trap by measuring the lifetime of the trapped atoms, the atom-light coupling strength, the filling factor, and the trap frequencies in the radial and axial directions. The implementation of this nanofiber-based optical interface with magic trapping wavelengths and sub-$\lambda/2$ spacing is an important step towards the exploration of novel collective radiative effects, such as selective radiance.