Atom optics using microfabricated structures

C. R. Ekstrom, D. W. Keith, and D. E. Pritchard

We present a novel method for fabricating precisely positioned small openings in thin silicon nitride membranes. Several optical elements for atoms have been constructed, including amplitude diffraction gratings and zone plates, and the results of experiments using these devices are presented. A method for creating a blazed diffraction grating is discussed.