Exploiting the composite character of Rydberg atoms for cold-atom trapping

By investigating the quantum properties of magnetically trapped nS(1/2) Rydberg atoms, it is demonstrated that the composite nature of Rydberg atoms significantly alters their trapping properties opposed to pointlike particles with the same magnetic moment. We show how the specific signatures of the Rydberg trapping potential can be probed by means of ground-state atoms that are off-resonantly coupled to the Rydberg state via a two photon laser transition. In addition, it is demonstrated how this approach provides an alternative possibility of generating traps for ground-state atoms. Simulated time-of-flight pictures mirroring the experimental situation are provided.