JCMS: Quantum metasurfaces as probes of vacuum particle content

by Germain Tobar (Stockholm University)

Monday Mar 24, 2025, 11:00 AM → 12:00 PM Europe/Stockholm

Albano 3: 6228 - Mega (22 seats) (Albano Building 3)

Abstract: The quantum vacuum of the electromagnetic field is inherently entangled across distinct spatial sub-regions, resulting in non-trivial particle content across these sub-regions. Here we propose to measure this vacuum particle content with a quantum mirror made from a two-dimensional sub-wavelength array of atoms that divides a photonic cavity. The array’s response to light is tunable between transmissive and reflective states by a control atom that is excited to a Rydberg state. We find that photon content from entangled sub-regions of the vacuum causes frequency shifts that are accessible in near term experimental setups. This feasibility stems from the system’s unique ability to create coherent superpositions of transmissive and reflective states, providing a practical platform for directly observing particle content from entangled spatial sub-regions of the electromagnetic field vacuum.