Coherence limits in lattice atom interferometry at the one-minute scale

Understand

In quantum metrology and quantum simulation, a coherent non-classical state must be manipulated before unwanted interactions with the environment lead to decoherence.

• In atom interferometry, the non-classical state is a spatial superposition, where each atom coexists in multiple locations as a collection of phase-coherent partial wavepackets.
• These states enable precise measurements in fundamental physics and inertial sensing.
• However, atom interferometers usually use atomic fountains, where the available interrogation time is limited to around 3 seconds for a 10 m fountain.