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High-Q Milligram-Scale Monolithic Pendulum for Quantum-Limited Gravity Measurements
Seth B Cataño-Lopez1, Jordy G Santiago-Condori1, Keiichi Edamatsu1
1Research Institute of Electrical Communication, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan.
Physical Review Letters
|June 23, 2020
Summary
We developed a low-dissipation, milligram-scale silica pendulum, achieving a record-low mechanical oscillator dissipation. This breakthrough enables quantum-limited sensing for gravity measurements and fundamental physics tests.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Quantum Technology
Background:
- High-Q mechanical oscillators are crucial for precision measurements.
- Existing milligram-scale oscillators have limitations in dissipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, high-Q monolithic silica pendulum.
- To achieve the lowest dissipative milligram-scale mechanical oscillator.
- To enable quantum-noise-limited sensing and quantum control.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a monolithic silica pendulum.
- Measurement of the pendulum's Q factor at 2.2 Hz.
- Integration with optomechanical displacement sensing.
Main Results:
- Achieved a Q value of 2.0×10^6 for the pendulum mode.
- Developed the lowest dissipative milligram-scale mechanical oscillator to date.
- Demonstrated potential for quantum-noise-limited sensing at hundreds of hertz.
Conclusions:
- The developed pendulum meets requirements for measurement-based quantum control.
- Enables testing dark matter, quantum Newtonian interactions, and enhances gravitational-wave detectors.
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