'Laser-trapped radium atoms for an EDM search'

Abstract: 
Permanent electric dipole moments (EDMs) in atoms or molecules are
signatures of Time (T)-and Parity (P)-violation and represent an
important window onto physics beyond the Standard Model.Ê We are
developing a next generation EDM search around laser-cooled and
trapped Ra-225 (t1/2 = 15 d).Ê Due to octupole deformation of the
nucleus, Ra-225 is predicted to be two to three orders of magnitude
more sensitive to T-violating interactions than Hg-199, which
currently sets the most stringent limits in the nuclear sector.Ê We
will discuss our progress, including the successful laser-cooling and
trapping of Ra-225 and Ra-226 atoms.Ê We have demonstrated transverse
cooling, Zeeman slowing, and capture of Ra-225 and Ra-226 atoms in a
magneto-optical trap (MOT).Ê By driving a second atomic transition, we
have extended the lifetime of the trap from milliseconds to seconds
and measured a number of atomic properties in the little-studied
radium atom. Surprisingly, we have demonstrated that room temperature
blackbody radiation from our trap apparatus actually assists in the
trapping of radium.Ê I will discuss this progress and outline our
measurement scheme and expected sensitivity for the EDM measurement.