We demonstrate a protocol to create localized wave packets in very-high-$n$ Rydberg states which travel in nearly circular orbits around the nucleus. Although these wave packets slowly dephase and eventually lose their localization, their motion can be monitored over several orbital periods. These wave packets represent the closest analog yet achieved to the original Bohr model of the hydrogen atom, i.e., an electron in a circular classical orbit around the nucleus. The possible extension of the approach to create “planetary atoms” in highly correlated stable multiply excited states is discussed.

• Received 27 February 2008

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.243004