Title: NIST Researches Optomechanical Systems for Quantum Sensing and Control
Summary:
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is exploring innovative optomechanical systems that combine light and mechanical motion for advanced sensing and quantum measurement applications. These systems use sub-wavelength periodic structures (photonic crystals) to create devices like mirrors, polarizers, and filters that interact with light in unique ways.
Key points:
1. NIST has demonstrated optical cooling of these devices to cryogenic temperatures and is working on further cooling into the quantum regime.
2. They have developed a “phonon laser” using these optomechanical systems, with potential applications in quantum sensing and control.
3. Novel functionality is being explored through active media and embedded quantum dots, enabling controllable bistable and tristable mechanical behavior.
The research aims to develop practical sensors and measurement tools leveraging the unique properties of optomechanical systems, with potential applications in quantum computing, communication, and sensing technologies.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/programs-projects/micro-and-nano-optomechanical-systems
Keywords: photonic crystals, optomechanical, quantum dots, optomechanics, sub-wavelength
