Near-field interferometry of a free-falling nanoparticle from a point-like source

Matter-wave interferometry performed with massive objects elucidates their wave nature and thus tests the quantum superposition principle at large scales. Whereas standard quantum theory places no limit on particle size, alternative, yet untested theories—conceived to explain the apparent quantum to classical transition—forbid macroscopic superpositions. Here we propose an interferometer with a levitated, optically cooled and then free-falling silicon nanoparticle in the mass range of one million atomic mass units, delocalized over >150 nm. The scheme employs the near-field Talbot effect with a single standing-wave laser pulse as a phase grating. Our analysis, which accounts for all relevant sources of decoherence, indicates that this is a viable route towards macroscopic high-mass superpositions using available technology. Testing the validity of the quantum superposition principle with increasingly large particles may shed light on the quantum to classical transition for macroscopic objects. Here, Bateman et al . propose a near-field interference scheme based on the single-source Talbot effect for 10 6 amu silicon particles.