Imaging-Based Quantum Optomechanics

Nearly a century ago, physicists realized that the act of imaging an object with light can itself disturb the object being imaged. This insight established fundamental limits on measurement that today lie at the heart of quantum technologies for computing, communication, and sensing. This project explores new methods for imaging and controlling mechanical motion using structured quantum light and nanomechanical resonators. Results will advance the development of next-generation chip-scale quantum sensors enhanced by entangled light, supporting national priorities in Quantum Information Science and Semiconductors/Microelectronics. The project leverages two recent advances: ultrahigh-Q nanomechanical oscillators, which are sensitive to radiation pressure quantum noise in free-space optical fields, and low-loss spatial light mode demultiplexing (SPADE) technologies, which enable generation and readout of multimode quantum states of light. Uniting these advances, three goals will be pursued: (1) quantum-enhanced imaging of a mechanical resonator using multimode squeezed light, (2) optomechanical generation of a two-mode entangled light field, and (3) quantum control of a mechanical resonator using multimode radiation pressure feedback. Beyond advancing the field of quantum optomechanics, the project provides a platform for studying the quantum limits of SPADE-based imaging, with potential applications in telecommunications, astronomy, and microscopy. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.