Capturing Black Holes and the Early Universe in the Lab

In the first qmeets talk, Professor Silke Weinfurtner and Dr. Patrik Svancara from the University of Nottingham will introduce quantum simulations of curved spacetimes around rotating compact objects like black holes. They’ll reveal how quantum tornadoes—giant vortices in superfluid helium—can help decode signals captured by gravitational wave detectors, bringing us closer to understanding the cosmos.

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Abstract:
Can we record the ringing of black holes or replicate the forces that shaped the early Universe? Remarkably, we can. At the Quantum Simulators for Fundamental Physics consortium, we combine advanced experiments and cutting-edge theory to recreate these distant cosmic phenomena in the lab. Using quantum fluids like ultracold atoms and superfluid helium, we simulate some of the most elusive processes in astrophysics and cosmology, transforming abstract theories into measurable events. These experiments not only deepen our understanding of the Universe but also open new pathways for future quantum technologies.