Who are you and what is the topic of your research group?

My name is Dennis Schlippert, and my group is working on quantum inertial sensor technology in order to research the fundamentals of physics on the one hand and to enable new applications, for example in navigation, on the other.

Which research question are you working on?

Atom interferometry for inertial sensing and tests of fundamental physics and investigate all-optical matter-wave sources, dual species atom interferometry, sensor fusion, and multi-axis inertial sensing in the scope of the Hannover VLBAI (Very Long Baseline Atom Interferometer) facility.

What makes this topic special/exciting for you?

The methods used in light-pulse atom interferometry are mere ~30 years old, rendering this a relatively young field. We are at the verge of seeing first quantum sensors on the market and I like the fundamental and applied use cases of my research.

How does your topic help to push the boundaries of what can be measured?

By using ultracold atoms and well-controlled light fields we are able to very accurately measure accelerations, e.g., for gravimetry and on-board sensing, with an unprecedented long-term stability not achievable with classical systems.

What is special about participating in the QuantumFrontiers cluster of excellence?

QuantumFrontiers provides a beautiful broad and interdisciplinary environment for finding experts in the field on one hand but also thinking outside of the box towards new research ideas on the other hand.