INTENTAS (INTerferometry with ENTangled Atoms in Space)

Abstract

The INTENTAS (INTerferometry with ENTangled AtomS in space) project aims to provide the first source of entangled atoms for experiments in micro-gravity. Employing an innovative all-optical approach, the project seeks to generate atomic Bose-Einstein condensates at short generation times. These Bose-Einstein condensates will be employed as a coherent source for the generation of squeezing and entanglement via spin-changing collisions. However, the micro-gravity conditions, facilitated by the Einstein Elevator in Hanover, present unique challenges related to robustness, compactness, the management of heat and power, as well as to the experimental control. A successful operation of the INTENTAS project will provide crucial progress towards long interrogation atomic interferometers deploying squeezed states.