Molecular ions sympathetically cooled into a Coulomb crystal

Molecular nitrogen ions sympathetically cooled into a Coulomb crystal of laser-cooled calcium ions

The preparation of “cold” molecules and molecular ions at temperatures T<<1 K has been one of the most exciting developments in chemical physics in recent years. Under these conditions, it is possible to observe, address and manipulate single particles on the quantum level. This technology paves the way for the study and control of chemical reactions of single molecules, for the development of new "molecular" quantum technologies, for spectroscopic measurements with an unprecedented accuracy and for the precise characterisation of chemical reaction mechanisms. Our work is devoted to exploring the unusual properties of cold molecules and ions and their various applications in both chemistry and physics. Navigate the menu above to learn more about our work.