Holographic methods for generation of specific wave-fronts to better control quantum coherent effects in laser-atom interactions

Methods for optical wave-front manipulation will be developed, in order to excite alkali metal vapors. In this way, efficient spatial control of interaction between laser radiation and atomic system will be enabled. Wave-fronts with specific profile (Bessel, Airy, Laguerre-Gauss) will be generated both statically (using holograms on film) and dynamically (using spatial light modulators – SLM). Particularly interesting is a development of vortex wave-front profiles. They enable additional angular momentum to be transferred, as well as appearance of closed lines with zero intensity of electromagnetic field (so called optical knots). We expect a number of interesting effects: strong nonlinearities in the material (rubidium vapors), effects like self-focusing, phase conjugation, storing of wave-front as a material polarization, and slowing-down of the light. We envisage the possibility of using such beams to slow-down or trap atomic particles. By that means possibilities to excite and analyze quantum systems are improved, due to diminished Doppler effect. Extremely narrow spectral features of dark states will be achieved. Rubidium vapors will be used as a nonlinear material for dynamic hologram recording in holographic interferometry. We expect to see the interference of the wave-front and its delayed copy, due to the slow-light effects. By that means we could investigate fast processes within relatively broad time-scale.