To perform computation, the atoms are first trapped in a magneto-optical trap. Qubits are then encoded in the energy levels of the atoms. Initialization and operation of the computer is performed via the application of lasers on the qubits. For example, the laser can accomplish arbitrary single qubit gates and a C Z gate for universal quantum computation. The C Z gate is carried out by leveraging the Rydberg blockade which leads to strong interactions when the qubits are physically close to each other. To perform a C Z gate a Rydberg π π pulse is applied to the control qubit, a 2 π π on the target qubit and then a π π on the control. Measurement is enforced at the end of the computation with a camera that generates an image of the outcome by measuring the fluorescence of the atoms.