Scientists have created a long-lasting (two seconds) dipolar Bose-Einstein condensate of sodium-cesium molecules at near absolute zero using a novel dual-microwave technique, opening new avenues for exploring exotic quantum matter and phases.
A team of scientists led by Zheng-Tian Lu has achieved a groundbreaking feat by maintaining a quantum superposition, or "cat state," for 23 minutes, a significant leap from the usual fleeting existence of such states. Using ytterbium atoms cooled to near absolute zero and precisely tuned lasers, the researchers managed to stabilize these states, which are highly sensitive to environmental changes. This advancement could revolutionize quantum information processing and enhance the sensitivity of probes for detecting subtle magnetic forces, pushing the boundaries of quantum technology.