Matter-Wave Interferometry of a Levitated Thermal Nano-Oscillator Induced and Probed by a Spin

• DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.111.180403
• Publication Date: 2013-10-29T14:47:38Z
• Authors: M. Scala; M. S. Kim; G. W. Morley; P. F. Barker; S. Bose
• Keywords: Mesoscopic physics; Nitrogen-vacancy center; Atom interferometer; Morse potential; Matter wave

We show how the interference between spatially separated states of center mass (c.m.) a mesoscopic harmonic oscillator can be evidenced by coupling it to spin and performing solely manipulations measurements (Ramsey interferometry). propose use an optically levitated diamond bead containing nitrogen-vacancy spin. The nanoscale size makes motional decoherence due levitation negligible. form spin-motion ensures that scheme works for thermal so moderate feedback cooling suffices. No separate control or observation c.m. state is required thereby one dispenses with cavities, resolved detection, low-mass-dispersion ensembles. controllable relative phase in Ramsey interferometry stems from gravitational potential difference uniquely evidences coherence which involve whole nanocrystal being distinct locations.