An optical spin orientation is achieved for a Mn atom localized in a semiconductor quantum
dot using quasiresonant excitation at zero magnetic field. Optically created spin-polarized
carriers generate an energy splitting of the Mn spin and enable magnetic moment
orientation controlled by the photon helicity and energy. The dynamics and the magnetic
field dependence of the optical pumping mechanism show that the spin lifetime of an
isolated Mn atom at zero magnetic field is controlled by a magnetic anisotropy induced by …

An optical spin orientation is achieved for a Mn atom localized in a semiconductor quantum
dot using quasiresonant excitation at zero magnetic field. Optically created spin polarized
carriers generate an energy splitting of the Mn spin and enable magnetic moment
orientation controlled by the photon helicity and energy. The dynamics and the magnetic
field dependence of the optical pumping mechanism shows that the spin lifetime of an
isolated Mn atom at zero magnetic field is controlled by a magnetic anisotropy induced by …