Endoscope-assisted manipulator for precooling and deposition in low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope systems

Abstract

We present the design and implementation of an advanced manipulator system for use in low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM) setups, specifically in an ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) chamber equipped with a bottom-loading cryostat and a superconducting magnet. This system integrates UHV-compatible endoscope assemblies, providing visual assistance for the precise alignment and transfer of the STM scanner shuttle to its receptacle. Additionally, the manipulator features an 85 K precooling stage, enabling molecule deposition on metallic substrates and STM imaging to verify surface conditions before transferring the shuttle to its receptacle at 4.2 K. This new approach enhances the operational efficiency of STM systems, particularly for low-temperature measurements in high magnetic fields, and addresses the challenges of sample contamination and thermal shock during the transfer process. © 2024 Author(s).