A MAGNETIC GUIDE FOR COLD ATOMS

We propose a novel method for guiding cold, neutral atoms using static magnetic fields. A theoretical study of the magnetic field produced b y a tube consisting of two identical, interwound solenoids carrying eq ual but opposite currents is presented. This field is almost zero thro ughout the centre of the tube, but it increases with exponential rapid ity as one approaches the walls formed by the current carrying wires. Hence, cold atoms passing through the tube may be reflected by magneti c mirror effects near the walls. Applying this technique to a Gee-fall ing cloud of magneto-optically cooled caesium atoms we hope to constru ct atomic guides to facilitate the manipulation of cold atomic beams.