New techniques and first results toward measuring the 6S(1/2) to 5D(3/2) magnetic-dipole transition moment in Ba+

Abstract

We report the final results from our first-generation attempt to measure the magnetic-dipole transition moment (M1) between the $6S_{1/2}$ and $5D_{3/2}$ manifolds in Ba$^{+}$. Knowledge of M1 is crucial for a parity-nonconservation experiment in the ion where M1 will be a leading source of systematic error. To date no measurement of M1 has been made in Ba$^{+}$, and moreover, the sensitivity of the moment to electron-electron correlations has confounded accurate calculations as well. A precise measurement may help to resolve the theoretical discrepancies while providing essential information for planning a future PNC measurement in Ba$^{+}$. We describe a variety of new measurement techniques that could be useful ultimately measuring M1.