PROGRESS IN OPTICALLY-DETECTED SPIN-RESONANCE ON HELIUM DROPLETS

Abstract

We have recently demonstrated the possibility of optically detecting the spin state of alkali metal atoms and molecules formed on helium nanodroplets and immersed in a magnetic field.} \textbf{98,} 075301 (2007).}} \textbf{111,} 7404 (2007).} This has already allowed us to show that the electronic spins of atoms do not relax within the timescale of the experiment ($\sim 10^{-3}$~s) and those of molecules do. With this prerequisites fulfilled, we now set to demonstrate that electron spins on a He droplet can be manipulated. We have already achieved optical pumping, which we intend to present at the meeting, and we strive to soon reach optically-detected electron-spin resonance.