The Panopticon device: an integrated Paul-trap-hemispherical mirror system for quantum optics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel experimental setup combining a Paul trap and a hemispherical mirror for trapping Ba+ ions, enabling advanced quantum electrodynamics studies with high photon collection efficiency.

Contribution

It presents a new integrated apparatus design for trapping ions near a hemispherical mirror, enhancing quantum optics research capabilities.

Findings

Achieved 31% collection efficiency of emitted light in a single optical mode.

Successfully integrated a 3D-printed Paul trap with a hemispherical mirror and high-NA lens.

Enabled studies of spontaneous emission modification in quantum electrodynamics.

Abstract

We present the design and construction of a new experimental apparatus for the trapping of single Ba$^+$ ions in the center of curvature of an optical-quality hemispherical mirror. We describe the layout, fabrication and integration of the full setup, consisting of a high-optical access monolithic `3D-printed' Paul trap, the hemispherical mirror, a diffraction-limited in-vacuum lens (NA = 0.7) for collection of atomic fluorescence and a state-of-the art ultra-high vacuum vessel. This new apparatus enables the study of quantum electrodynamics effects such as strong inhibition and enhancement of spontaneous emission, and achieves a collection efficiency of the emitted light in a single optical mode of 31%.