Optimized alkali atom cooling scheme using a transmission-grating-based magneto-optical trap.

Traditional magneto-optical traps are often bulky and complex, which limits their application in portable and scalable technologies. In this study, we propose a method for generating cold atoms using a transmission-grating-based magneto-optical trap (TGMOT). This approach addresses the limitations of traditional magneto-optical traps using a transmission-grating design that simplifies the optical configuration, allowing for efficient atom capture with a single incident beam. Our theoretical model demonstrates that the TGMOT maintains balanced forces on the trapped atoms, thereby enhancing cooling and capture efficiency compared to existing grating-based systems. Experimental results indicate that the TGMOT has a high atom-capture rate and capacity. The proposed TGMOT scheme represents a promising avenue for developing miniaturized portable quantum sensing devices, atomic clocks, and other compact quantum technologies.