Zero-point fluctuations in Josephson junctions - implications for dark energy

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Quantum fluctuations mean that the vacuum is not empty as it is assumed in classical physics. These fluctuations, also known as zero-point fluctuations, produce measurable effects in superconducting electronic devices (Josephson junctions). The energy of zero-point fluctuations, also called vacuum energy, could be responsible for the dark energy of the universe, a mysterious type of energy that is currently dominating the universe. If this is the case, one expects to see a cutoff at high frequencies in the measured frequency spectrum of current noise in Josephson junctions. Currently an experiment to test this hypothesis is being designed in the US and the first experimental data are expected soon. The research project is to develop a mathematical theory of high frequency noise in Josephson junctions, to predict possible spectra and cutoffs, and to compare the theoretical predictions with future experimental data, in close collaboration with the experimentalists.