High-purity quantum optomechanics with optically levitated nanoparticles

by Mr. Oscar Schmitt Kremer

ETH Zurich

at Quantum optics seminar

Wed, 03 Dec 2025, 16:00
Zoom only

Abstract

Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81281299983?pwd=SzsMxPHP9wK6luPEOQ2iC1FBkVT0qM.1

Abstract:
In the last decades, the scientific community has made significant efforts to probe the limits of quantum mechanics, seeking to understand whether nonclassical phenomena can be observed at macroscopic scales. Optically levitated nanoparticles have emerged as a promising platform for this endeavor, thanks to the high degree of mechanical isolation provided by levitation in vacuum. In this talk, I will introduce the principles of optical levitation and discuss how to control the motion of nano-objects to the quantum level. I will show how we prepared a highly-pure quantum ground state of the angular motion of an anisotropic nanoparticle via cavity cooling, in a room temperature setup. Our results match the performance of state-of-the-art optomechanical platforms that typically rely on cryogenic environments.

Created on 27-11-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)
Updaded on 27-11-2025 by Folman, Ron (folman)