There is a strong drive towards observing quantum effects in macroscopic mechanical systems, as this could lead to new insights in quantum-limited measurements as well as test fundamental questions regarding the impossible consequences of quantum physics at a macroscopic scale. To obtain sufficiently long-lived mechanical states the usual approach is to couple a mechanical oscillator to an electromagnetic resonance in a cavity. This study presents a new design for such a system where a free-standing flexible aluminium membrane (like a drum) is incorporated in a cavity defined by a superconducting circuit, and demonstrates a coupling strength that is two orders of magnitude higher than achieved before. The approach shows the way to observing long-lived quantum states that could survive for hundreds of microseconds.
- J. D. Teufel
- Dale Li
- R. W. Simmonds
