Controlled Generation and Manipulation of Vortex Dipoles in a Bose-Einstein Condensate

We propose methods to generate and manipulate vortex dipoles in a Bose-Einstein condensate using Gaussian beams of red or blue-detuned laser. Velocity-controlled vortex dipoles are shown to be created and launched by a red-detuned beam and by two blue-detuned beams. Critical velocities for the vortex nucleation are investigated. The launched vortex dipoles can be trapped, curved, accelerated, and decelerated using Gaussian beams. Collisions between vortex dipoles are demonstrated.