Spin-Orbit Coupling and Spin Textures in Optical Superlattices

Abstract

We propose and demonstrate a new approach for realizing spin-orbit coupling with ultracold atoms. We use orbital levels in a double-well potential as pseudospin states. Two-photon Raman transitions between left and right wells induce spin-orbit coupling. This scheme does not require near resonant light, features adjustable interactions by shaping the double-well potential, and does not depend on special properties of the atoms. A pseudospinor Bose-Einstein condensate spontaneously acquires an antiferromagnetic pseudospin texture, which breaks the lattice symmetry similar to a supersolid.