A band-like reflection spectrum of an atomic beam on a periodic laser profile

We propose a laser arrangement that can allow a multipeaked laser profile with periodicity of the order of the laser wavelength. We analyse the reflection properties of atoms dropped onto this periodical laser. This periodicity produces bands in the reflection spectrum of the atoms. We have studied the case of repulsive and attractive laser potential. In particular we prove the feasibility of constructing an atom mirror with an attractive potential, i.e. a potential without turning points. We include in our calculations the gravitational effects. The spontaneous emission is also analysed as a lossy mechanism, and we have proved that for sufficiently large detuning the bands remain.