Spin-Dependent Off-Axis Holography: A Window into Spinor Bose-Einstein Condensates Dynamics

Abstract

This thesis introduces a novel method for imaging spinor Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC). In particular, we focus on Sodium-23, a spin-1 composite boson. Traditional imaging techniques are based on destructive methods, which damage the condensates and limit further investigation of the same sample. To address this problem, an alternative approach is proposed: holographic imaging. Off-axis holography allows us to obtain information about the condensate’s dynamics while preserving its integrity. However, this method does not give information about the different spin domains inside a spinor BEC, but only regarding the BEC as a single entity. To overcome this limitation and go beyond, we want to extend this technique. Essentially, the phase shift contrast between two orthogonal polarizations of a probe beam passing through a spinor depends on the specific domain. In this work, we give a proof of concept of this spin-dependent off-axis holography technique, which allows us to distinguish between different spin states while minimizing the perturbation to the system. In other words, this method is a window into the fascinating quantum phenomena and the spin dynamics in situ. Additionally, we develop theoretical simulations using a time-splitting spectral algorithm. These simulations will help us to understand the condensate’s behavior and the processes occurring in the forthcoming experiments.