Low-power microstructured atomic oven for alkaline-earth-like elements

Abstract

The development of miniaturized atomic ovens for quantum sensors is a key advancement in compact optical clocks for portable and space applications. Our novel oven for alkaline-earth-like elements, made from microstructured fused silica, offers low power consumption and sufficient reservoir lifetime. It demonstrates high efficiency atom evaporation below 0.3 W of heating power and achieves loading rates in a magneto-optical trap (MOT) of up to 10^9 atoms/s. The compact design eliminates the need for large deceleration devices and can be integrated into quantum systems with stringent size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements. Our innovation is critical for advancing quantum technologies in precision metrology to space-based platforms.