91av

Technology

Ultracold atoms have been 'hyperentangled' for the first time

By exerting unprecedented control over extremely cold atoms, researchers have put them in a state with several simultaneously quantum-entangled properties

By Karmela Padavic-Callaghan

22 May 2025

Laser cooled neutral atoms experimental setup

Some of the lab equipment needed to trap laser-cooled atoms

Endres Lab

Extremely cold atoms have been connected into a state of quantum “hyperentanglement” for the first time. This demonstrates a new level of control over their quantum properties, which could prove useful for quantum computing.

When cooled to temperatures very close to absolute zero – the lowest possible temperature – atoms don’t fully freeze in place, because quantum effects that don’t exist at warmer temperatures enable them to keep making tiny motions. A research team at the California Institute of Technology has now used laser light to take control of those motions in an unprecedented…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with 91av events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, today with our introductory offers

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop