Towards a quantum gas microscope for fermionic atoms

Abstract

This thesis reports the achievement of a two-species apparatus for use in an upcoming experiment with fermionic ultracold atomic gases. First, we describe the construction of a laser system capable of cooling and trapping gaseous lithium-6 atoms in a 3D Magneto-Optical Trap. Second, we discuss the realization of a 2D Magneto-Optical Trap which, in our experiment, acts as a high-flux source of cold potassium-40 atoms. These two systems are critical first steps in cooling the lithium and potassium atoms to quantum degeneracy.