An atom-by-atom assembler of defect-free arbitrary two-dimensional atomic arrays

TLDR

Perfect atomic arrays are valuable for quantum information, but stochastic loading typically creates defects, and two groups have recently achieved defect‑free assembly of arbitrary two‑dimensional arrays. The study aims to use further cooling and induced interactions to extend these defect‑free arrays for quantum simulation. The authors first stochastically load and image atoms, then shuttle them into precise positions to form defect‑free two‑dimensional arrays with arbitrary spatial configurations. Published in Science, pages 972–1024.

Abstract

Making perfect atomic arrays Arrays of atoms can be a useful resource for quantum information. However, loading atoms into arrays is typically a stochastic process, which leads to imperfections. Two groups have now performed defect-free assembly of atoms into arrays (see the Perspective by Regal). The researchers first loaded the atoms stochastically and imaged the system. They then shuttled the atoms around to form perfect arrays. Barredo et al. worked with two-dimensional arrays, creating a variety of spatial configurations. Endres et al. manipulated atoms along a line. By further cooling down the atoms and generating interactions among them, the techniques may also find use in quantum simulation. Science , this issue p. 972 , p. 1021 ; see also p. 1024