Cold Atom Lab - Zero-G Studies of Few Body and Many-Body Physics

Zero-G Studies of Few-Body and Many-Body Physics (Cold Atom Lab - Few-Body Physics) investigates the dynamics of interacting ultracold atoms under varying conditions. The dynamics of few-body systems comprised of just three or four atoms can strongly influence the collective behavior of quantum gases and play an important role in development of quantum gas applications. Modern laser cooling techniques are used to chill atoms to near absolute zero temperatures. At these temperatures, atoms behave like matter waves, according to the laws of quantum mechanics. Fully automated data runs, each lasting about one minute, acquire images of ultracold atom clouds under varying conditions. The acquired data fills a critical need for the development of detailed and precise atomic physics models. The development of these models is performed in theoretical studies accompanying the data gathering campaigns with the CAL instrument. Studying the behavior and interaction of few atoms in microgravity could provide important data for developing a precise theory describing quantum gases on a microscopic level. The knowledge gained in this study also aids in the development of future quantum technologies for which a detailed microscopic understanding of few-body physics is essential. Examples of future quantum technologies include, among others, atom interferometers for inertial navigation or precision measurements of gravity and sensitive Terahertz (THz) detectors for astronomy.