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EP: Fachverband Extraterrestrische Physik

EP 5: Fundamental Physics

EP 5.3: Talk

Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 14:15–14:30, Zahnklinik

Cold Atoms in Microgravity and in Space — •Claus Lämmerzahl¹ and Hansjörg Dittus² — ¹ZARM, University Bremen, 28359 Bremen — ²DLR, Institute for Space Systems, 28359 Bremen

A long free evolution time of ultracold atoms enables unprecedented sensitivity of measurements. Long free evolution of quantum systems is only possible in free fall. Therefore microgravity and space are the natural environment to exploit the capabilities of quantum sensors. We outline the range of applications of quantum sensors in space as inertial sensors and as devices for improved fundamental physics tests in the area of gravitational physics and quantum mechanics. We also report on the present state of the technological readiness. As an example we describe the progress made for Bose-Einstein Condensates and atomic interferometry in free fall, both projects carried through at the drop tower in Bremen.