Description:

Abstract: Experimental progress in quantum optomechanics has allowed preparing, manipulating, and probing the mechanical motions of macroscopic objects in the quantum regime.  Laser interferometer gravitational-wave detectors are now sensitive to displacements of kg-scale test masses near the free-mass Standard Quantum Limit, which arises from applying the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle to kg-scale test masses.  Upcoming and future upgrades of these interferometers will benefit from techniques that substantially surpass the Standard Quantum Limit.  Quantum optomechanics also provides new opportunities for testing quantum mechanics, quantum measurement theory, and possibly studying the quantum nature of gravity. If these tests confirm conventional predictions, we will demonstrate the validity of quantum mechanics in unprecedented regimes. Deviations from conventional predictions will lead to new physics.  

Speaker: Yanbei Chen, Caltech

Keywords: CFP, Physics