Magneto-Optical Trapping and Control for a Neutral Atom Quantum Computer

Abstract

This thesis presents the design, implementation, and characterization of a Rubidium-87Magneto-Optical Trap (MOT) developed as a part of the foundation of a neutral atom quantum computing platform. A two-dimensional (2D) MOT and a 2D+ MOT configuration are realized to generate and deliver a cold atomic beam for future three-dimensional trapping. The experimental system integrates laser locking based on saturated absorption spectroscopy, radio-frequency control of acousto-optic and electro-optic modulators, permanentmagnet field generation, and a real-time FPGA-based control system. The 2D MOT is characterized using fluorescence imaging, and the 2D+ atomic beam is characterized by transversal probe beam spectroscopy. We extract the linewidth and assess Doppler and power-broadening effects. The results demonstrate stable generation of a collimated atomic beam and establish a robust testbed for future integration with optical tweezers and scalable neutral atom quantum computing architectures.