MatterWave · A Guided Matter-Wave Interferometer on a Atom-Chip

The ultimate aim of the proposed research is to make ultra-sensitive matter-interferometry available in a compact and eventually portable device. Specifically, we seek to test the ideas in a guided matter-wave interferometer based on ultracold bosonic atoms. We will explore matter-wave interferometry in macroscopic traps as well as on atom-chips. Such device has the potential to induce a step change in the sensitivity with which acceleration and rotation can be measured. The expected impact extends well beyond fundamental research, for example to geoscience and navigation.<br/>En route to the ultimate goal of a portable matter-wave interferometer, we hope to break new ground in the understanding of important aspects of matter-wave interferometry with interacting atomic gases. We will strive to master the coherence preserving manipulation of matter-waves in wave-guides and the miniaturisation eventually down to the size of a microchip. In addition, we will address the challenge of combining all these ingredients in a mobile device.