Dynamics of optomechanical droplets in a Bose-Einstein condensate

We investigate numerically a one-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensate illuminated by off-resonant laser light which is retroreflected by a single feedback mirror. Studying the ground states of the system, we find density structures which are self-trapped via the optomechanical action of the diffracted light. We show that these structures are stable and exhibit Newtonian dynamics. We propose that these results allow continuous, nondestructive monitoring of condensate dynamics via the optical intensity and may offer opportunities for optical control and transport of coherent matter via gradients in optical phase alone.

Automated summary

In this study, we numerically investigate the properties of a one-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensate illuminated by off-resonant laser light reflected by a single feedback mirror. We find self-trapped density structures formed by the optomechanical action of the diffracted light, which are stable and exhibit Newtonian dynamics. Our results suggest the possibility of continuous, nondestructive monitoring of condensate dynamics through optical intensity measurement, and potential opportunities for optical control and transport of coherent matter through gradients in optical phase.