Abstract

We discuss novel schemes for subrecoil cooling based on velocity selective coherent population trapping (VSCPT) in 2D laser configurations. In particular we are interested in configurations where polarization gradient cooling coexists with VSPCT and provides a precooling mechanism for dark state cooling.¹ We consider both the case of free atoms (optical molasses) and of atoms confined to a trapping potential in the form of a "box." We analyze the efficiency of these cooling schemes with quantum Monte Carlo wavefunction simulations, and present 2D bandstructure calculations in optical potentials.

© 1994 Optical Society of America