Three-axis sample manipulator with X Y Z translation for use in UHV

A three-axis manipulator suitable for atom diffraction experiments has been constructed by combining three modules with translation, polar rotation, and azimuthal-tilt rotation capabilities. No magnetic materials are used and materials have been chosen to minimize the possibility of galling in vacuum. Azimuthal rotations of up to ±110°, tilt rotations of up to ±30°, and polar rotations of ±180° are possible with the manipulator. The Z motion is ±2 in. and XY motions of 10 mm lead to a change in azimuthal and tilt angles of less than one degree. The sample is heated with electron bombardment and can be cooled to 80 K.