title: Towards quantum superpositions of a mirror.
abstract: We propose an experiment for creating quantum superposition states involving of the order of 10(14) atoms via the interaction of a single photon with a tiny mirror. This mirror, mounted on a high-quality mechanical oscillator, is part of a high-finesse optical cavity which forms one arm of a Michelson interferometer. By observing the interference of the photon only, one can study the creation and decoherence of superpositions involving the mirror. A detailed analysis of the requirements shows that the experiment is within reach using a combination of state-of-the-art technologies.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics, University of Oxford, United Kingdom.
authors.forename: William
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Marshall
authors.forename: Christoph
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Simon
authors.forename: Roger
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Penrose
authors.forename: Dik
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Bouwmeester