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Physicists make laser beams visible in vacuum

Researchers at the University of Bonn developed a method to visualize laser beams in a vacuum, allowing for precise alignment of individual atoms. This breakthrough enables faster and more accurate quantum optics experiments, potentially leading to advancements in computing and materials science.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateAug 25, 2021

Ultra-cold atom transport made simple

Researchers developed a filtering device for ultra-cold neutral atoms based on tunnelling, enabling efficient and robust transport. The technique can be applied to various high-precision applications like quantum metrology and quantum simulation.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateJul 7, 2014

Quantum computing moves forward

Recent advances enable control of individual atoms used in quantum information processing, paving the way for creation of powerful computers and highly sensitive detectors. Researchers explore ways to transmit quantum information over long distances and scale up the number of qubits.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2013

Growing geodesic carbon nanodomes

Graphene nanodomes, formed by concentric rings of carbon atoms, offer new insight into graphene growth and potential methods for assembling components of graphene-based computer circuits. The discovery enables varying the size of the carbon domes from a few nanometers to hundreds of nanometers across.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 12, 2009

Controlling most atoms now possible

Researchers have developed techniques to control most atoms using atomic coilguns and lasers, enabling the determination of neutrino mass and potential applications in atomic physics. The breakthroughs use a combination of supersonic beam technology and single-photon cooling methods.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 6, 2008

New method for quantum cooling discovered by researchers at The University of Texas at Austin

Scientists at The University of Texas at Austin have developed a new technique for quantum cooling that uses lasers to create a one-way wall. This innovation could lead to advances in atomic clocks and the manipulation of atoms and molecules at extremely low temperatures, enabling researchers to test laws of quantum physics.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 8, 2005

World's smallest atom storage ring is first to guide ultra-cold neutral atoms; a step toward 'atom fiber optics'

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed the first storage ring to confine and guide ultra-cold neutral atoms in a circular path. The Nevatron ring marks a step toward creating atom fiber optics that could improve aircraft guidance systems and open new areas of study in basic physics.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 15, 2001

Atom amplifier

A team of MIT researchers has successfully created an atom amplifier, increasing the intensity of a beam of atoms while maintaining their precise quantum mechanical wave formation. This achievement completes the laser analogy and has significant implications for precision sensors in navigation, geological exploration, and atomic clocks.

First observation of a new quantum gas

Scientists at JILA have successfully cooled a gas of potassium atoms to temperatures near absolute zero, creating a Fermi degenerate gas. This achievement demonstrates the behavior of fermions, which are essential building blocks of matter, and could lead to breakthroughs in atomic clock technology and electronic devices.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalScience·DateSep 9, 1999

Smallest Force Measurement Reported

Researchers from Stanford University and IBM's Almaden Research Center successfully measured forces of infinitesimal magnitude for the first time using a new method called magnetic resonance force microscopy. The technique enables the detection of atto-newton forces, which are one billionth of a billionth of a newton.