Optomechanics as a Probe for New Physics: From Dark Matter to Spontaneous Wave Function Collapse

Abstract

Optomechanical systems can be used to probe weak forces arising from fundamental physical phenomena. Here, we analyze experimental efforts to search for ultralight dark matter and test spontaneous wave function collapse models, using ultra-low-loss micromechanical resonators based on silicon nitride membranes. We predict that constraints can be drawn in room temperature, table-top experiments that are competitive with the contemporary bounds set by large-scale experiments such as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory. In the future, we envision setting more stringent bounds by operating experiments in a cryostat.