Novel Quantum Materials as Laboratories for Fundamental Physics in Microgravity

Novel two-dimensional (2D), atomically flat materials, such as graphene and transition-metal dichalcogenides, exhibit unconventional Dirac electronic spectra. We propose that their interactions with cold atoms in microgravity can be effectively quantum engineered, leading to a synergy between complex electronic and atomic collective quantum phases and phenomena. This could result in revolutionary technologies in the fields of energy harvesting, quantum information, atomic sensors, custom film coatings, and materials design. We explore this novel paradigm via three integrated research directions where the microgravity environment of the current and future Cold Atom Laboratory missions on the International Space Station is essential for the elimination of competing interactions and exposing the nature of the emergent quantum behavior. We aim to chart a groundbreaking new direction for the planned BECCAL (Bose-Einstein Condensate Cold Atom Laboratory) mission and well beyond, as envisaged by the NASA Fundamental Physics Program. This proposal is well aligned with the Physical Sciences Program of the Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate, and our research spans across the Materials Science (electronic materials), Complex Fluids and Fundamental Physics research areas. The Implementing Center is expected to be the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). With the full support of the NASA Fundamental Physics Program leadership, we aim to incubate and explore a new fundamental research direction in microgravity: novel physical phenomena and quantum matter at the interface of atomic and two-dimensional materials research. In particular, we will: 1) Manipulate the Casimir / van der Waals (vdW) force between atoms and graphene monolayer through the application of strain, electronic doping, etc., thus allowing for selective adsorption and influencing the interactions between individual atoms. This allows us to influence fundamental phenomena such as quantum reflection, and investigate the properties of highly polarizable Rydberg atoms and atomic clusters. 2) Explore exotic quantum many-body phases not yet observed on earth, including anisotropic supersolids and superfluids. 3) Examine 2D materials as substrates for tunable liquid film growth, which can result in exotic quantum wetting phase transitions. The research will be performed by a tightly integrated team of domain-specific experts in the fields of condensed matter physics, quantum materials, quantum information, ultracold atoms, non-linear phenomena, and experimental design in microgravity with a history of successful collaboration. We aim to incubate a new intellectual center of excellence in Vermont focused on fundamental physics in space.

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