Large Quantum Superpositions and Interference of Massive Nanometer-Sized Objects

TL;DR

This paper proposes a method to create and verify large-scale quantum superpositions of nanometer-sized objects, enabling tests of objective collapse models with current and near-future technology.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach combining cavity optomechanics and matter wave interferometry to generate and verify spatial superpositions of massive objects.

Findings

Simulation shows feasibility with existing technology

Provides bounds on collapse models

Operational parameters for experiments are outlined

Abstract

We propose a method to prepare and verify spatial quantum superpositions of a nanometer-sized object separated by distances of the order of its size. This method provides unprecedented bounds for objective collapse models of the wave function by merging techniques and insights from cavity quantum optomechanics and matter wave interferometry. An analysis and simulation of the experiment is performed taking into account standard sources of decoherence. We provide an operational parameter regime using present day and planned technology.