Self-bound dipolar droplet: a localized matter-wave in free space

TL;DR

This paper reports the creation and analysis of self-bound dipolar droplets in free space, showing their stability due to quantum fluctuations and interactions, with potential experimental realization.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of self-bound dipolar droplets, providing a phase diagram and experimental pathways, advancing understanding of localized matter-waves in free space.

Findings

Stable self-bound states exist for specific interaction parameters.

Quantum fluctuations play a crucial role in stabilization.

Experimental protocols for creating these droplets are feasible.

Abstract

We demonstrate that a dipolar condensate can be prepared into a three-dimensional wavepacket that remains localized when released in free-space. Such self-bound states arise from the interplay of the two-body interactions and quantum fluctuations. We develop a phase diagram for the parameter regimes where these self-bound states are stable, examine their properties, and demonstrate how they can be produced in current experiments.