Mainz 2026 – scientific programme

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SYFP: Symposium Tests of Fundamental Physics with AMO Systems

SYFP 1: Tests of fundamental physics with AMO systems

SYFP 1.2: Invited Talk

Friday, March 6, 2026, 11:30–12:00, RW 1

Precision spectroscopy of muonic atoms — •Randolf Pohl for the QUARTET collaboration — JGU Mainz

In muonic atoms, a single muon replaces all of the atomic electrons, resulting in a 2-body system whose hydrogen-like theory is very well understood. The large muon mass of 200 times the electron mass results in a 200^3 = 10 million fold improved sensitivity of muonic-atom energy levels to nuclear structure.

Using laser spectroscopy, we have investigated the charge radii of Z=1 and 2 (H to 4He). Next we will determine the magnetic "Zemach" radius of the proton. Currently we're measuring muonic Li to Ne by means of X-ray spectroscopy with metallic magnetic calorimeters (MMCs), a novel x-ray detector technology with vastly improved energy resolution.

A novel target concept allows x-ray spectroscopy of radioactive atoms. I will report on some recent measurements with a Ge detector array.

Keywords: muonic atoms; laser spectroscopy; X-ray spectroscopy; nuclear radii