A source of slow atoms based on a conical magneto-optical trap

Currently, the field of quantum frequency standards based on cold atoms is actively developing. Сold atoms underlie the creation of such quantum gravimetric sensors as atomic gravimeters, atomic gradiometers and atomic gyroscopes. One of the key elements of these sensors is the source of cold atoms, which must provide a sufficient flow of cooled atoms. This paper presents the development of a compact source of Rb87 atoms based on a conical magnetooptical trap, which significantly simplifies the optical scheme by replacing the multipath system with a single conical reflector. The developed compact source is used in fountain-type frequency standards. The scheme, principle of operation, design features and experimental characteristics of a source of slow atoms are given. The results of a study of the operating parameters of a source of slow atoms based on a conical magneto-optical trap and the characteristics of its output atomic beam are presented: the estimated number of trapped atoms in the conical region of the trap, the average atomic flow velocity, and the dependence of the characteristics of the output atomic beam on the operating parameters of the trap. These characteristics demonstrate the possibility of using a conical magneto-optical trap as a source of slow atoms in modern fountain-type frequency standards and other atomic sensors.