The research topics of the TURIS come from of the outstanding research achievements by the TURIS consortium. It combines eight Research Groups that cover jointly four complementary research areas:
EXPERIMENTAL QUANTUM OPTICS
The pioneering work of the TURIS members led to the development of quantum technology with a level of quantum control and sensitivity that allows for the observation of weak gravitational forces on quantum systems. This research area covers the setup of table-top experiments for quantum probes based on photons, matter waves, and nano-mechanical devices.
ASTROPHYSICS
In order to enhance the gravitational effects on quantum systems we are working towards space-based experiments that use quantum links from ground stations to satellites for single photons. This RA is dedicated to quantifying the severe experimental challenges when working in the single-photon regime due to the atmosphere and to optimizing signal stability by adaptive optics and feedback control mechanisms.
QUANTUM THEORY
This research area supports the experimental efforts by developing quantum optical control and readout mechanisms for quantum systems that can be used for high-precision tests. In addition to the theory support for the interplay between quantum theory and general relativity, causality and decoherence mechanisms are studied from a quantum information perspective.
GRAVITATIONAL PHYSICS
This research area covers in depth general relativistic effects and curved space-time for optimizing parameters in interference experiments using individual quantum particles. A main focus is to provide a sound theoretical basis for deriving the gravitational effects that are measurable in table-top or satellite-based experiments.