Single-atom detection with a quantum-controlled mechanical oscillator
Phys. Rev. A 114, 023515 – Published 19 August, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/tpvm-t75j
Abstract
Using supersonic expansion, we create a time-gated, directional beam of Xe atoms with a narrow momentum distribution and detect their collisions with a levitated nanosphere cooled to its quantum ground state. We observe individual momentum kicks below 50 with confidence and distinguish directional momentum transfer from the atomic beam against the background of thermal collisions. Our experiments constitute a first step toward the exploration of distance-dependent short-range interactions between atoms and levitated systems, as well as toward the use of levitated platforms for impulsive force sensing in previously unexplored parameter regimes.
