Photoionization dynamics of Mg atoms during Paul trap loading using a two-color UV laser system

Abstract

Abstract Trapped ions have proven to be a powerful instrument in quantum logic, precision metrology and tests of fundamental theories. Many applications require isotopically pure ion crystals to be trapped; however, selective loading methods require either isotopically pure atom sources or dedicated ultraviolet laser systems. Here we investigate the loading dynamics of the isotopically pure magnesium ion crystals photoionized and Doppler-cooled with a two-color UV laser system at 285 nm and 280 nm. The system shares the same tapered amplifier and the first stage of a second-harmonic generation for both wavelengths, which significantly reduces the complexity and cost of the experiment. A selective loading rate of 0.05 ions s−1 was achieved, supporting theoretical evaluations.