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Abstract:
We here report on the implementation of a microwave lens for neutral polar molecules suitable to focus molecules in both low-field-seeking and high-field-seeking states. By using the TE11m modes of a 12 cm long cylindrically symmetric microwave resonator, Stark-decelerated ammonia molecules are trans- versally confined. We investigate the focusing properties of this microwave lens as a function of the molecules’ velocity, the microwave power, and the frequency detuning from the molecular resonance. Such a microwave lens can be seen as a first important step towards further microwave devices, such as decelerators and traps.