A scanning quantum cryogenic atom microscope at 6 K

TL;DR

The paper presents enhancements to the SQCRAMscope, a cryogenic quantum sensor, achieving lower sample temperatures, improved cryogen efficiency, and easier sample handling, thereby advancing quantum sensing capabilities at cryogenic temperatures.

Contribution

It introduces technical improvements including a closed-cycle cryostat, radiation shielding, and a new sample mount, enabling lower temperatures and more efficient operation.

Findings

Sample temperature reduced from 35 K to 5.8 K

Cryogen usage decreased with closed-cycle system

Sample exchange and quantum gas preparation streamlined

Abstract

The Scanning Quantum Cryogenic Atom Microscope (SQCRAMscope) is a quantum sensor in which a quasi-1D quantum gas images electromagnetic fields emitted from a nearby sample. We report improvements to the microscope. Cryogen usage is reduced by replacing the liquid cryostat with a closed-cycle system and modified cold finger, and cryogenic cooling is enhanced by adding a radiation shield. The minimum accessible sample temperature is reduced from 35 K to 5.8 K while maintaining low sample vibrations. A new sample mount is easier to exchange, and quantum gas preparation is streamlined.