It is proposed to use the saturated value of the radiation pressure force on neutral atoms to produce a constant central force field to deflect atoms in circular orbits and make a high-resolution velocity analyzer. This is useful for studying the interaction of atoms with high-intensity monochromatic light, and to separate, velocity analyze, or trap neutral atoms of specific isotopic species or hyperfine level.

• Received 14 September 1970

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.25.1321