Abstract
Weightlessness promises to substantially extend the science of quantum gases toward presently inaccessible regimes of low temperatures, macroscopic dimensions of coherent matter waves, and enhanced duration of unperturbed evolution. With the long-term goal of studying cold quantum gases on a space platform, we currently focus on the implementation of an 87Rb Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) experiment under microgravity conditions at the ZARMa drop tower in Bremen (Germany). Special challenges in the construction of the experimental setup are posed by a low volume of the drop capsule (<1m3) as well ascritical vibrations during capsule release and peak decelerations of up to 50 g during recapture at the bottom of the tower. All mechanical and electronic components have thus been designed with stringent demands on miniaturization, mechanical stability and reliability. Additionally, the system provides extensive remote control capabilities as it is not manually accessible in the tower two hours before and during the drop. We present the robust system and show results from first tests at the drop tower.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | From Quantum to Cosmos |
Subtitle of host publication | Fundamental Physics Research in Space |
Publisher | World Scientific |
Pages | 579-586 |
Number of pages | 8 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9789814261210 |
ISBN (Print) | 9814261203, 9789814261203 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jan 2009 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2009 by World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords
- Bose-einstein condensate
- Chip trap
- Microgravity
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Physics and Astronomy