Loading a planar RF Paul Trap from a cold Yb⁺ source

Abstract

In this thesis, we demonstrate a functioning planar radio frequency, three-rod Paul Trap, loaded with Yb+ ions that have been photoionized from a source of neutral atoms, which were cooled in a magneto-optical trap. Planar ion traps have only recently been successfully loaded[1], and never from a cold ion source. Additionally, ionizing directly from a MOT allows for isotope selection.