Three-dimensional localization of ultracold atoms in an optical disordered potential

TL;DR

This study investigates 3D Anderson localization of ultracold atoms in a disordered optical potential, revealing a coexistence of localized and diffusive density profiles consistent with self-consistent theory, and highlighting localization beyond classical percolation thresholds.

Contribution

First experimental observation of 3D Anderson localization of ultracold atoms in a disordered optical potential with detailed analysis.

Findings

Density profiles show localized and diffusive components.

Localization aligns with self-consistent Anderson theory.

Localization occurs despite broad energy distribution of atoms.

Abstract

We report a study of three-dimensional (3D) localization of ultracold atoms suspended against gravity, and released in a 3D optical disordered potential with short correlation lengths in all directions. We observe density profiles composed of a steady localized part and a diffusive part. Our observations are compatible with the self-consistent theory of Anderson localization, taking into account the specific features of the experiment, and in particular the broad energy distribution of the atoms placed in the disordered potential. The localization we observe cannot be interpreted as trapping of particles with energy below the classical percolation threshold.