A “quantum leap” at room temperature

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In the realm of quantum mechanics, the ability to observe and control quantum phenomena at room temperature has long been elusive, especially on a large or “macroscopic” scale. Researchers at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL - including Nils Johan Engelsen who is currently active at Quantum Technology at Chalmers University of Technology - have achieved a milestone by controlling quantum phenomena at room temperature. Traditionally, observations of quantum phenomena have been confined to environments near absolute zero, where quantum effects are easier to detect. But the requirement for extreme cold has been a major hurdle, limiting practical applications of quantum technologies.

Now, a study led by Tobias J. Kippenberg at EPFL and Nils Johan Engelsen at Chalmers University of Technology redefines the boundaries of what’s possible. The pioneering work blends quantum physics and mechanical engineering to achieve control of quantum phenomena at room temperature.