Reproducible dynamic dark ring lattices for ultracold atoms

We demonstrate the generation of highly adaptable and reproducible dark optical ring lattices, which do not require Laguerre-Gauss beams or interferometric stability. In conjunction with a magnetic trap, these scanned 2D intensity distributions will enable low-decoherence trapping and straightforward dynamic manipulation of ultracold species in annular geometries using low-intensity regions of blue-detuned light. The technique is ideal for azimuthal ratchet, Mott insulator and persistent current experiments with quantum degenerate gases.