Experimental Optomechanics

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Our research aims to realize ultrasensitive micromechanical sensors actuated by light. To this end, we fabricate delicate "micro-trampolines" exhibiting record force sen-sitivity and compatibility with optics such that the forces exerted by an extra-ordinarily small quantity of light -- at the level of a single photon -- will profoundly influence their motion. Additionally, by partially levitating such systems, we can enhance this sensitivity by essentially replacing flexible materials with light. Finally, we pursue a qualitatively new system in which light controls the spatial distribution of oscillating mass. These efforts will enable us to study macroscopic quantum motion, shuttle quantum information between qubits and light, and detect zeptonewton forces.