Observation of a Dissipative Time Crystal

We present the first experimental realization of a time crystal stabilized by dissipation. The central signature in our implementation in a driven open atom-cavity system is a period doubled switching between distinct checkerboard density wave patterns, induced by the interplay between controlled cavity dissipation, cavity-mediated interactions, and external driving. We demonstrate the robustness of this dynamical phase against system parameter changes and temporal perturbations of the driving.

Automated summary

This study represents the first experimental realization of a time crystal stabilized by dissipation. The period doubled switching between distinct checkerboard density wave patterns in a driven open atom-cavity system is induced by controlled cavity dissipation, cavity-mediated interactions, and external driving. The research demonstrates the robustness of this dynamical phase against changes in system parameters and temporal perturbations of the driving.