Physics Colloquium

Ultracold atom technologies have transformed our ability to perform precise spectroscopy and apply it to metrology and fundamental physics. For example, laser-cooled atoms trapped in optical interference patterns constitute the highest-performing clocks. These devices can be applied to fundamental questions and improve our understanding of gravity and general relativity. I will discuss using optically trapped molecules, rather than atoms, as a reference for clocks and other high-precision experiments. Molecules have more internal quantum states and therefore are relatively challenging to control. On the other hand, their vibrational modes offer a large number of prospective clock transitions, and can help us probe alternative aspects of new physical interactions. I will also discuss the current precision limit of molecular metrology and possible paths forward.

Join via Zoom:
https://caltech.zoom.us/j/81866929019
Meeting ID: 818 6692 9019

The colloquium is held in Feynman Lecture Hall, 201 E. Bridge.