Magneto-Optical Trap Field Characterization with the Directional Hanle Effect

Abstract

We demonstrate the use of spatial emission patterns to measure the magnetic fields used in a magneto-optical trap. The directional aspect of the Hanle effect gives a direct, visual presentation of the magnetic fields, in which brighter fluorescence indicates larger fields. It can be used to determine the direction as well as the magnitude of the field. It is particularly well suited for characterizing and aligning magneto-optical traps, requiring little additional equipment or setup beyond what is ordinarily used in a magneto-optical trap, and being most sensitive to fields of the size typically present in a magneto-optical trap.