Quantum squeezing is achieved at room temperature

An optomechanical device that adjusts – or “squeezes” – the uncertainties in the quantum properties of laser light has been developed by Nancy Aggarwal at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and colleagues. The team created their source of squeezed light using a mirror that oscillates under radiation pressure, but displays little thermal fluctuation, even at room temperature. Their approach could soon be used to boost the performance of gravitational wave detectors.