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Future Directions

• High Resolution SEMPA. The new field emission SEMPA system will be used to explore the growth of magnetic materials on semiconductors and the effect of structure on magnetic properties, e.g., domain formation, anisotropy, etc. Such information is of importance to the emerging discipline of "spin electronics" where spin direction replaces electrical charge in logic and storage devices. Following resolution tests and acceptance of the system, advanced computer control will be added to the microscope and semiconductor/ferromagnetic systems will be studied. Additionally, the possibility of applying magnetic fields to prototypical devices will be explored.

• Quantum Electronics and Autonomous Atom Assembly. First experiments will be attempted to explore the physics surrounding the adsorption of a magnetic atom (cobalt) on a copper substrate. Questions involving the Kondo effect, i.e., the response of a free electron gas to a magnetic impurity, have arisen that can only be unequivocally explained through STM experiments performed in high magnetic fields and at variable temperatures. We also expect to attempt the first manual moves of cobalt atoms on the copper surface and interface our computers to allow for the first computer-controlled manipulation of atoms.

• Absolute Source-Based Radiometry. Physical measurements on the SURF III machine indicate that all design parameters essential to the attainment of 1 % absolute radiometric accuracy are within specification. However, this accuracy remains to be demonstrated by a process of intercomparison. Attaining this accuracy is the highest priority of the SURF program, and during the next few years it will be pursued by a combination of studies of beam dynamics, improved determination of electron current in the storage ring, and improved automation and determinism of machine operations.

• Quantum Information. The Division is a key participant in the NIST quantum information competence program that began in FY01. Our main task in this program is modeling of device physics, and the exploration of schemes for utilizing coherent matter waves for quantum logic processing. As an extension of our atom lithography efforts, we also expect to attempt to build a source of atoms that can produce a single atom or string of atoms on demand. This non-statistical atom source would, for example, change the way surface nanostructures grow and provide a useful atom source for cavity QED and quantum coherence experiments.

• EUV Optics and Lithography. The Division has made major investments in EUV optics infrastructure during the past decade, and is now poised to make key metrology contributions to the development of EUV lithography. We have been working closely with the industry leaders in the field, and expect this interaction to be strengthened.