Optomechanical Schr\"odinger Cats - a Case for Space

TL;DR

This paper proposes a space-based experiment to create and observe large-scale Schrödinger cat states using quantum optomechanics, aiming to explore macroscopic quantum phenomena beyond Earth-bound laboratory capabilities.

Contribution

It introduces a novel space experiment concept for generating and studying macroscopic quantum superpositions of massive objects in optomechanics.

Findings

Potential to create Schrödinger cat states of unprecedented size and mass

Highlights the advantages of space environment for maintaining quantum coherence

Provides a framework for future macroscopic quantum experiments in space

Abstract

Quantum optomechanics exploits radiation pressure effects inside optical cavities. It can be used to generate quantum states of the center-of-mass motion of massive mechanical objects, thereby opening up a new parameter regime for macroscopic quantum experiments. The challenging experimental conditions to maintain and observe quantum coherence for increasingly large objects may require a space environment rather than an earth-bound laboratory. We introduce a possible space experiment to study the wave-packet expansion of massive objects. This forms the basis for Schr\"odinger cat states of unprecedented size and mass.