More about the programme
The objectives of the Scientific Programme "Quantum Degenerate Dilute Systems-Bose-Einstein Condensation and Beyond (BEC2000+)" are the strengthening of the European leadership in the experimental realisation and theoretical understanding of quantum degenerate atomic gases. This programme shall foster the advancement of existing collaborations, the establishing of contacts between newly formed groups, the fasts dissemination of research results, experimental skills and theoretical methods, and the training of young researchers.
Scientific Objectives
Bose-Einstein is bringing together seemingly unrelated fields of low-temperature physics, quantum optics, atomic and molecular physics, statistical physics and physical chemistry.
The status of the field and avenues of the future research can be summarized as follows:
- Preparation of condensates has become easier, yet there still is quite some space till condensates can routinely be created and maintained. Here the purpose of the programme would be to provide the forum for a quick and frictionless exchange of techniques, tricks and methods with the ultimate goal to make condensation an easy-handle technology.
- Characterization of basic features, like the shape of the condensate or its specific heat, is accomplished, yet the more advanced features like the response to small scale perturbations, the creation and stability of non-linear excitations, or the dynamics of condensation are still poorly understood. Here the purpose of the programme would be to bring together experts from theoretical and experimental physics which could possibly resolve these issues.
- Manipulation of condensates in a variety of controllable environments (optical lattices, magnetic bottles, etc.) is currently explored. As these environments also provide ideal model systems for the investigation of basic issues in condensed matter physics and statistical mechanics, the purpose of the programme would be to foster the cross-fertilization between these fields and the fields of quantum optics and atomic physics.
- Applications like the atom laser (a brilliant source of atoms) have been demonstrated. Applications in quantum optics, low-temperature physics and other fields of basic research are still being developed. Here, the purpose of the programme would be to stimulate developments in novel technological applications like nano-structuring, precision standards and real-time chemistry.
- Extensions which aim at the condensation of non-alkaline atoms, low-dimensional systems, and the degeneracy of fermionic atom gases are just beginning to be explored. Here the purpose of the programme would be to provide the basis for the necessary interdisciplinary training and collaboration between the well established areas of condensed matter physics and the ongoing activities in the new field of quantum degenerate dilute systems.
