Loading chromium atoms in a magnetic guide

We have realized a magnetic guide for ultracold chromium atoms by continuously loading atoms directly from a Zeeman slower into a horizontal guide. We observe an atomic flux of 2 x 107 atoms s-1 and are able to control the mean velocity of the guided atoms between 0 m s-1 and 3 m s-1. We present our experimental results on loading and controlling the mean velocity of the guided atoms and discuss the experimental techniques that are used. (fast track communication)