Side Stepping Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle isn’t easy

Improving the sensitivity of measuring equipment such as LIGO’s massive laser interferometer involves attempting to ‘sidestep’ the uncertainty principle. But, new research shows, that is going to be even harder than we had believed.

Robert Lea
Nov 1 · 5 min read
Two different quantum optomechanical systems used to demonstrate novel dynamics in backaction-evading measurements. Left (yellow): silicon nanobeam supporting both an optical and a 5 GHz mechanical mode, operated in a helium-3 cryostat at 4 Kelvin and probed using a laser sent in an optical fibre. Right (purple): microwave superconducting circuit coupled to a 6 MHz mechanically-compliant capacitor, operated in a dilution refrigerator at 15 milli-Kelvin. (I. Shomroni, EPFL.)

Keep the story going. Sign up for an extra free read.

Robert Lea

Written by

Freelance science writer and journalist. Space. Physics. Astronomy. Astrophysics. Quantum Physics. ABSW member. WCSJ Fellow 2019. Twitter @sciencef1rst

Predict

Predict

where the future is written

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade