Abstract

We present results of numerical simulation that demonstrated the existence of long-lived optical molasses (super-molasses). The model is based on the presence of a vortex force, which is mainly due to the misalignment and the nonuniform transverse profiles of the laser beams. A computer simulation shows an increase in the molasses storage time, which qualitatively agrees with previous experimental observations. A few different aspects and explanations arising from this model are discussed.

© 1992 Optical Society of America