Guglielmo M. Tino - Università e LENS, Firenze, INFN, Sezione di Firenze (Italy)
Mark A. Kasevich - Stanford University (USA)
Scientific Secretary: Fiodor Sorrentino - Università di Firenze, INFN, Sezione di Firenze (Italy) - sorrentino@fi.infn.it
Matter-wave interference is at the basis of quantum mechanics. After early experiments with electrons and neutrons, about 20 years ago, atom interferometry was first demonstrated. Since then it led to growing applications in basic and applied science. For example, atom interferometry has been used to measure rotations, gravity gradients, h/m and accelerations with unprecedented precision. Future applications range from tests of general relativity to the development of next generation inertial navigation systems. The accuracy of atom interferometric instruments also requires an accurate understanding of the theory used to connect the measured interferometric phase shift to the physically relevant quantities. Several laboratories in the world are actively working in this field. In particular, in Europe a network of laboratories is working on joint projects supported by EC and ESA with a considerable number of students involved.
The School on experiments and theory of atom interferometry will then be very timely since no specific school was organized on this topic and the main reference text for atom interferometry dates back to 1996. The proceedings will certainly become the main updated reference in this field.
The goal of the School is providing young physicists with an overview of atom interferometry physics and current and future projects. The bulk of the lectures will focus on the basics of matter-wave interferometry, experimental schemes, ultracold atoms and atom optics. Ongoing experiments will be presented in dedicated seminars. Due attention will be given also to the challenging applicative prospects of this rapidly developing field. The proceedings will certainly become the main updated reference in this field.
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