Research Interests:
Quantum Foundations; Decoherence and Open Quantum Systems; Quantum/Gravity Interplay; Quantum Sensing
Teaching:
Quantum Algorithms
Journal Articles
2025
Abdalla, Adam; Bassi, Angelo; Carlesso, Matteo; et al,
Terrestrial Very-Long-Baseline Atom Interferometry: summary of the second workshop Journal Article
In: EPJ Quantum Technology, vol. 12, no. 42, 2025.
@article{Abdalla2025,
title = {Terrestrial Very-Long-Baseline Atom Interferometry: summary of the second workshop},
author = {Adam Abdalla and Angelo Bassi and Matteo Carlesso and et al},
url = {https://link.springer.com/article/10.1140/epjqt/s40507-025-00344-3},
doi = {10.1140/epjqt/s40507-025-00344-3},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-04-03},
urldate = {2025-04-03},
journal = {EPJ Quantum Technology},
volume = {12},
number = {42},
abstract = {This summary of the second Terrestrial Very-Long-Baseline Atom Interferometry (TVLBAI) Workshop provides a comprehensive overview of our meeting held in London in April 2024 (Second Terrestrial Very-Long-Baseline Atom Interferometry Workshop, Imperial College, April 2024), building on the initial discussions during the inaugural workshop held at CERN in March 2023 (First Terrestrial Very-Long-Baseline Atom Interferometry Workshop, CERN, March 2023). Like the summary of the first workshop (Abend et al. in AVS Quantum Sci. 6:024701, 2024), this document records a critical milestone for the international atom interferometry community. It documents our concerted efforts to evaluate progress, address emerging challenges, and refine strategic directions for future large-scale atom interferometry projects. Our commitment to collaboration is manifested by the integration of diverse expertise and the coordination of international resources, all aimed at advancing the frontiers of atom interferometry physics and technology, as set out in a Memorandum of Understanding signed by over 50 institutions (Memorandum of Understanding for the Terrestrial Very Long Baseline Atom Interferometer Study).},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Altamura, Davide Giordano Ario; Vinante, Andrea; Carlesso, Matteo
Improved bounds on collapse models from rotational noise of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna Pathfinder mission Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 111, no. 2, 2025, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Altamura2025,
title = {Improved bounds on collapse models from rotational noise of the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna Pathfinder mission},
author = {Davide Giordano Ario Altamura and Andrea Vinante and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.111.l020203},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {111},
number = {2},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Angeli, Oliviero; Carlesso, Matteo
Entanglement in Markovian hybrid classical-quantum theories of gravity Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. D, vol. 112, no. 2, 2025, ISSN: 2470-0029.
@article{Angeli2025,
title = {Entanglement in Markovian hybrid classical-quantum theories of gravity},
author = {Oliviero Angeli and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1103/jzht-fbwt},
issn = {2470-0029},
journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
volume = {112},
number = {2},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Muffato, R.; Georgescu, T. S.; Homans, J.; Guerreiro, T.; Wu, Q.; Chisholm, D. A.; Carlesso, M.; Paternostro, M.; Ulbricht, H.
Generation of classical non-Gaussian states by squeezing a thermal state into nonlinear motion of levitated optomechanics Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Research, vol. 7, no. 1, 2025, ISSN: 2643-1564.
@article{Muffato2025,
title = {Generation of classical non-Gaussian states by squeezing a thermal state into nonlinear motion of levitated optomechanics},
author = {R. Muffato and T. S. Georgescu and J. Homans and T. Guerreiro and Q. Wu and D. A. Chisholm and M. Carlesso and M. Paternostro and H. Ulbricht},
doi = {10.1103/physrevresearch.7.013171},
issn = {2643-1564},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Research},
volume = {7},
number = {1},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
abstract = {We report on an experiment achieving the dynamical generation of non-Gaussian states of motion of a levitated optomechanical system. We access intrinsic Duffing-like nonlinearities by thermal squeezing of an oscillator's state of motion by rapidly switching the frequency of its trap. We characterize the experimental non-Gaussian state versus expectations from simulations and give prospects for the emergence of genuine nonclassical features.
Published by the American Physical Society
2025
},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2024
Lenler-Eriksen, Emil; Drewsen, Michael; Carlesso, Matteo
Testing continuous spontaneous localization model with charged macromolecules Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 26, no. 11, 2024, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{Lenler-Eriksen2024,
title = {Testing continuous spontaneous localization model with charged macromolecules},
author = {Emil Lenler-Eriksen and Michael Drewsen and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/ad904a},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-11-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {26},
number = {11},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Abstract
In the last decade, a growing interest has been devoted to models of spontaneous collapse of the wavefunction, known also as collapse models. They coherently solve the well-known quantum measurement problem by suitably modifying the Schrödinger evolution. Quantum experiments are now finally within the reach of testing such models (and thus testing the limits of quantum theory). Here, we propose a method based on a two-ions confined in a linear Paul trap to possibly enhance the testing capabilities of such experiments. The combination of an atomic and a macromolecular ion provide a good match for the cooling of the motional degrees of freedom and a non-negligible insight in the collapse mechanism, respectively. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Figurato, Laria; Dirindin, Marco; Gaona-Reyes, José Luis; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo; Donadi, Sandro
On the effectiveness of the collapse in the Diósi–Penrose model Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 26, no. 11, 2024, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{Figurato2024b,
title = {On the effectiveness of the collapse in the Diósi–Penrose model},
author = {Laria Figurato and Marco Dirindin and José Luis Gaona-Reyes and Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi and Sandro Donadi},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/ad8c77},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-11-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {26},
number = {11},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Abstract
The possibility that gravity plays a role in the collapse of the quantum wave function has been considered in the literature, and it is of relevance not only because it would provide a solution to the measurement problem in quantum theory, but also because it would give a new and unexpected twist to the search for a unified theory of quantum and gravitational phenomena, possibly overcoming the current impasse. The Diósi–Penrose model is the most popular incarnation of this idea. It predicts a progressive breakdown of quantum superpositions when the mass of the system increases; as such, it is susceptible to experimental verification. Current experiments set a lower bound
R
0
≳
4
Å for the free parameter of the model, excluding some versions of it. In this work we search for an upper bound, coming from the request that the collapse is effective enough to guarantee classicality at the macroscopic scale: we find out that not all macroscopic systems collapse effectively. If one relaxes this request, a reasonable (although to some degree arbitrary) bound is found to be:
R
0
≲
10
6
Å. This will serve to better direct future experiments to further test the model. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Wu, Qiongyuan; Chisholm, Diana A; Muffato, Rafael; Georgescu, Tiberius; Homans, Jack; Ulbricht, Hendrik; Carlesso, Matteo; Paternostro, Mauro
Squeezing below the ground state of motion of a continuously monitored levitating nanoparticle Journal Article
In: Quantum Sci. Technol., 2024, ISSN: 2058-9565.
@article{Wu2024,
title = {Squeezing below the ground state of motion of a continuously monitored levitating nanoparticle},
author = {Qiongyuan Wu and Diana A Chisholm and Rafael Muffato and Tiberius Georgescu and Jack Homans and Hendrik Ulbricht and Matteo Carlesso and Mauro Paternostro},
doi = {10.1088/2058-9565/ad7284},
issn = {2058-9565},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-08-22},
journal = {Quantum Sci. Technol.},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Abstract
Squeezing is a crucial resource for quantum information processing and quantum sensing. In levitated nanomechanics, squeezed states of motion can be generated via temporal control of the trapping frequency of a massive particle. However, the amount of achievable squeezing typically suffers from detrimental environmental effects. We analyze the performance of a scheme that, by embedding careful time-control of trapping potentials and fully accounting for the most relevant sources of noise – including measurement backaction – achieves significant levels of mechanical squeezing. The feasibility of our proposal, which is close to experimental state-of-the-art, makes it a valuable tool for quantum state engineering. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Bartolomeo, Giovanni Di; Carlesso, Matteo
Experimental bounds on linear-friction dissipative collapse models from levitated optomechanics Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 26, no. 4, 2024, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{DiBartolomeo2024,
title = {Experimental bounds on linear-friction dissipative collapse models from levitated optomechanics},
author = {Giovanni Di Bartolomeo and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/ad3842},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2024},
date = {2024-04-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Abstract
Collapse models constitute an alternative to quantum mechanics that solve the well-know quantum measurement problem. In this framework, a novel approach to include dissipation in collapse models has been recently proposed, and awaits experimental scrutiny. Our work establishes experimental bounds on the so-constructed linear-friction dissipative Diósi-Penrose (dDP) and Continuous Spontaneous localisation (dCSL) models by exploiting experiments in the field of levitated optomechanics. Our results in the dDP case exclude collapse temperatures below 10−13 K and
6
×
10
−
12
K respectively for values of the localisation length smaller than 10−6 m and 10−8 m. In the dCSL case the entire parameter space is excluded for values of the temperature lower than
6
×
10
−
9
K. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Gaona-Reyes, José Luis; Menéndez-Pidal, Lucía; Faizal, Mir; Carlesso, Matteo
Spontaneous collapse models lead to the emergence of classicality of the Universe Journal Article
In: J. High Energ. Phys., vol. 2024, no. 2, 2024, ISSN: 1029-8479.
@article{Gaona-Reyes2024,
title = {Spontaneous collapse models lead to the emergence of classicality of the Universe},
author = {José Luis Gaona-Reyes and Lucía Menéndez-Pidal and Mir Faizal and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1007/jhep02(2024)193},
issn = {1029-8479},
journal = {J. High Energ. Phys.},
volume = {2024},
number = {2},
publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC},
abstract = {Abstract
Assuming that Quantum Mechanics is universal and that it can be applied over all scales, then the Universe is allowed to be in a quantum superposition of states, where each of them can correspond to a different space-time geometry. How can one then describe the emergence of the classical, well-defined geometry that we observe? Considering that the decoherence-driven quantum-to-classical transition relies on external physical entities, this process cannot account for the emergence of the classical behaviour of the Universe. Here, we show how models of spontaneous collapse of the wavefunction can offer a viable mechanism for explaining such an emergence. We apply it to a simple General Relativity dynamical model for gravity and a perfect fluid. We show that, by starting from a general quantum superposition of different geometries, the collapse dynamics leads to a single geometry, thus providing a possible mechanism for the quantum-to-classical transition of the Universe. Similarly, when applying our dynamics to the physically-equivalent Parametrised Unimodular gravity model, we obtain a collapse on the basis of the cosmological constant, where eventually one precise value is selected, thus providing also a viable explanation for the cosmological constant problem. Our formalism can be easily applied to other quantum cosmological models where we can choose a well-defined clock variable. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Altamura, Davide Giordano Ario; Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro; Bassi, Angelo
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 109, no. 6, 2024, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Altamura2024,
title = {Noninterferometric rotational test of the continuous spontaneous localization model: Enhancement of the collapse noise through shape optimization},
author = {Davide Giordano Ario Altamura and Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.109.062212},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {109},
number = {6},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2023
Bartolomeo, Giovanni Di; Carlesso, Matteo; Piscicchia, Kristian; Curceanu, Catalina; Derakhshani, Maaneli; Diósi, Lajos
Linear-friction many-body equation for dissipative spontaneous wave-function collapse Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 108, no. 1, 2023, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{DiBartolomeo2023,
title = {Linear-friction many-body equation for dissipative spontaneous wave-function collapse},
author = {Giovanni Di Bartolomeo and Matteo Carlesso and Kristian Piscicchia and Catalina Curceanu and Maaneli Derakhshani and Lajos Diósi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.108.012202},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {108},
number = {1},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Wu, Qiongyuan; Ciampini, Mario A.; Paternostro, Mauro; Carlesso, Matteo
Quantifying protocol efficiency: A thermodynamic figure of merit for classical and quantum state-transfer protocols Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Research, vol. 5, no. 2, 2023, ISSN: 2643-1564.
@article{Wu2023,
title = {Quantifying protocol efficiency: A thermodynamic figure of merit for classical and quantum state-transfer protocols},
author = {Qiongyuan Wu and Mario A. Ciampini and Mauro Paternostro and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1103/physrevresearch.5.023117},
issn = {2643-1564},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Research},
volume = {5},
number = {2},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2022
Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro; Ferialdi, Luca; Paternostro, Mauro; Ulbricht, Hendrik; Bassi, Angelo
Present status and future challenges of non-interferometric tests of collapse models Journal Article
In: Nat. Phys., vol. 18, no. 3, pp. 243–250, 2022, ISSN: 1745-2481.
@article{Carlesso2022,
title = {Present status and future challenges of non-interferometric tests of collapse models},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi and Luca Ferialdi and Mauro Paternostro and Hendrik Ulbricht and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1038/s41567-021-01489-5},
issn = {1745-2481},
journal = {Nat. Phys.},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {243--250},
publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Belenchia, Alessio; Carlesso, Matteo; Bayraktar, Ömer; Dequal, Daniele; Derkach, Ivan; Gasbarri, Giulio; Herr, Waldemar; Li, Ying Lia; Rademacher, Markus; Sidhu, Jasminder; Oi, Daniel K. L.; Seidel, Stephan T.; Kaltenbaek, Rainer; Marquardt, Christoph; Ulbricht, Hendrik; Usenko, Vladyslav C.; Wörner, Lisa; Xuereb, André; Paternostro, Mauro; Bassi, Angelo
Quantum physics in space Journal Article
In: Physics Reports, vol. 951, pp. 1–70, 2022, ISSN: 0370-1573.
@article{Belenchia2022,
title = {Quantum physics in space},
author = {Alessio Belenchia and Matteo Carlesso and Ömer Bayraktar and Daniele Dequal and Ivan Derkach and Giulio Gasbarri and Waldemar Herr and Ying Lia Li and Markus Rademacher and Jasminder Sidhu and Daniel K.L. Oi and Stephan T. Seidel and Rainer Kaltenbaek and Christoph Marquardt and Hendrik Ulbricht and Vladyslav C. Usenko and Lisa Wörner and André Xuereb and Mauro Paternostro and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1016/j.physrep.2021.11.004},
issn = {0370-1573},
journal = {Physics Reports},
volume = {951},
pages = {1--70},
publisher = {Elsevier BV},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Wu, Qiongyuan; Mancino, Luca; Carlesso, Matteo; Ciampini, Mario A.; Magrini, Lorenzo; Kiesel, Nikolai; Paternostro, Mauro
Nonequilibrium Quantum Thermodynamics of a Particle Trapped in a Controllable Time-Varying Potential Journal Article
In: PRX Quantum, vol. 3, no. 1, 2022, ISSN: 2691-3399.
@article{Wu2022,
title = {Nonequilibrium Quantum Thermodynamics of a Particle Trapped in a Controllable Time-Varying Potential},
author = {Qiongyuan Wu and Luca Mancino and Matteo Carlesso and Mario A. Ciampini and Lorenzo Magrini and Nikolai Kiesel and Mauro Paternostro},
doi = {10.1103/prxquantum.3.010322},
issn = {2691-3399},
journal = {PRX Quantum},
volume = {3},
number = {1},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2021
Belenchia, Alessio; Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro; Gasbarri, Giulio; Ulbricht, Hendrik; Bassi, Angelo; Paternostro, Mauro
Test quantum mechanics in space — invest US$1 billion Journal Article
In: Nature, vol. 596, no. 7870, pp. 32–34, 2021, ISSN: 1476-4687.
@article{Belenchia2021,
title = {Test quantum mechanics in space — invest US$1 billion},
author = {Alessio Belenchia and Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi and Giulio Gasbarri and Hendrik Ulbricht and Angelo Bassi and Mauro Paternostro},
doi = {10.1038/d41586-021-02091-8},
issn = {1476-4687},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-08-05},
journal = {Nature},
volume = {596},
number = {7870},
pages = {32--34},
publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Rijavec, Simone; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo; Vedral, Vlatko; Marletto, Chiara
Decoherence effects in non-classicality tests of gravity Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 23, no. 4, 2021, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{Rijavec2021,
title = {Decoherence effects in non-classicality tests of gravity},
author = {Simone Rijavec and Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi and Vlatko Vedral and Chiara Marletto},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/abf3eb},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-04-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {23},
number = {4},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Abstract
The experimental observation of a clear quantum signature of gravity is believed to be out of the grasp of current technology. However, several recent promising proposals to test the possible existence of non-classical features of gravity seem to be accessible by the state-of-art table-top experiments. Among them, some aim at measuring the gravitationally induced entanglement between two masses which would be a distinct non-classical signature of gravity. We explicitly study, in two of these proposals, the effects of decoherence on the system’s dynamics by monitoring the corresponding degree of entanglement. We identify the required experimental conditions necessary to perform successfully the experiments. In parallel, we account also for the possible effects of the continuous spontaneous localization (CSL) model, which is the most known among the models of spontaneous wavefunction collapse. We find that any value of the parameters of the CSL model would completely hinder the generation of gravitationally induced entanglement. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Adler, S L; Bassi, A; Carlesso, Matteo
The continuous spontaneous localization layering effect from a lattice perspective Journal Article
In: J. Phys. A: Math. Theor., vol. 54, no. 8, 2021, ISSN: 1751-8121.
@article{Adler2021,
title = {The continuous spontaneous localization layering effect from a lattice perspective},
author = {S L Adler and A Bassi and Matteo Carlesso},
doi = {10.1088/1751-8121/abdbc8},
issn = {1751-8121},
year = {2021},
date = {2021-02-26},
urldate = {2021-02-26},
journal = {J. Phys. A: Math. Theor.},
volume = {54},
number = {8},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title>
<jats:p>For a solid lattice, we rederive the continuous spontaneous localization (CSL) noise total energy gain of a test mass starting from a Lindblad formulation, and from a similar starting point rederive the geometry factor governing center of mass energy gain. We then suggest that the geometry factor can be used as a way to distinguish between low temperature cantilever motion saturation arising from CSL noise, and saturation arising from thermal leakage.</jats:p>},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
<jats:p>For a solid lattice, we rederive the continuous spontaneous localization (CSL) noise total energy gain of a test mass starting from a Lindblad formulation, and from a similar starting point rederive the geometry factor governing center of mass energy gain. We then suggest that the geometry factor can be used as a way to distinguish between low temperature cantilever motion saturation arising from CSL noise, and saturation arising from thermal leakage.</jats:p>
Carlesso, Matteo; Naeij, Hamid Reza; Bassi, Angelo
Perturbative algorithm for rotational decoherence Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 103, no. 3, 2021, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Carlesso2021,
title = {Perturbative algorithm for rotational decoherence},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Hamid Reza Naeij and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.103.032220},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {103},
number = {3},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Bartolomeo, Giovanni Di; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo
Gravity as a classical channel and its dissipative generalization Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. D, vol. 104, no. 10, 2021, ISSN: 2470-0029.
@article{DiBartolomeo2021,
title = {Gravity as a classical channel and its dissipative generalization},
author = {Giovanni Di Bartolomeo and Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physrevd.104.104027},
issn = {2470-0029},
journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
volume = {104},
number = {10},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Gasbarri, Giulio; Belenchia, Alessio; Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro; Bassi, Angelo; Kaltenbaek, Rainer; Paternostro, Mauro; Ulbricht, Hendrik
Testing the foundation of quantum physics in space via Interferometric and non-interferometric experiments with mesoscopic nanoparticles Journal Article
In: Commun Phys, vol. 4, no. 1, 2021, ISSN: 2399-3650.
@article{Gasbarri2021,
title = {Testing the foundation of quantum physics in space via Interferometric and non-interferometric experiments with mesoscopic nanoparticles},
author = {Giulio Gasbarri and Alessio Belenchia and Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi and Angelo Bassi and Rainer Kaltenbaek and Mauro Paternostro and Hendrik Ulbricht},
doi = {10.1038/s42005-021-00656-7},
issn = {2399-3650},
journal = {Commun Phys},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC},
abstract = {Abstract Quantum technologies are opening novel avenues for applied and fundamental science at an impressive pace. In this perspective article, we focus on the promises coming from the combination of quantum technologies and space science to test the very foundations of quantum physics and, possibly, new physics. In particular, we survey the field of mesoscopic superpositions of nanoparticles and the potential of interferometric and non-interferometric experiments in space for the investigation of the superposition principle of quantum mechanics and the quantum-to-classical transition. We delve into the possibilities offered by the state-of-the-art of nanoparticle physics projected in the space environment and discuss the numerous challenges, and the corresponding potential advancements, that the space environment presents. In doing this, we also offer an ab-initio estimate of the potential of space-based interferometry with some of the largest systems ever considered and show that there is room for tests of quantum mechanics at an unprecedented level of detail. },
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Gaona-Reyes, J. L.; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A.
Gravitational interaction through a feedback mechanism Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. D, vol. 103, no. 5, 2021, ISSN: 2470-0029.
@article{Gaona-Reyes2021,
title = {Gravitational interaction through a feedback mechanism},
author = {J. L. Gaona-Reyes and Matteo Carlesso and A. Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physrevd.103.056011},
issn = {2470-0029},
journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
volume = {103},
number = {5},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Gundhi, A.; Gaona-Reyes, J. L.; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A.
Impact of Dynamical Collapse Models on Inflationary Cosmology Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 127, no. 9, 2021, ISSN: 1079-7114.
@article{Gundhi2021c,
title = {Impact of Dynamical Collapse Models on Inflationary Cosmology},
author = {A. Gundhi and J. L. Gaona-Reyes and Matteo Carlesso and A. Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physrevlett.127.091302},
issn = {1079-7114},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Lett.},
volume = {127},
number = {9},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2020
Zheng, Di; Leng, Yingchun; Kong, Xi; Li, Rui; Wang, Zizhe; Luo, Xiaohui; Zhao, Jie; Duan, Chang-Kui; Huang, Pu; Du, Jiangfeng; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo
Room temperature test of the continuous spontaneous localization model using a levitated micro-oscillator Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Research, vol. 2, no. 1, 2020, ISSN: 2643-1564.
@article{Zheng2020,
title = {Room temperature test of the continuous spontaneous localization model using a levitated micro-oscillator},
author = {Di Zheng and Yingchun Leng and Xi Kong and Rui Li and Zizhe Wang and Xiaohui Luo and Jie Zhao and Chang-Kui Duan and Pu Huang and Jiangfeng Du and Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physrevresearch.2.013057},
issn = {2643-1564},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Research},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
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Vinante, A.; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A.; Chiasera, A.; Varas, S.; Falferi, P.; Margesin, B.; Mezzena, R.; Ulbricht, H.
Narrowing the Parameter Space of Collapse Models with Ultracold Layered Force Sensors Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 125, no. 10, 2020, ISSN: 1079-7114.
@article{Vinante2020,
title = {Narrowing the Parameter Space of Collapse Models with Ultracold Layered Force Sensors},
author = {A. Vinante and Matteo Carlesso and A. Bassi and A. Chiasera and S. Varas and P. Falferi and B. Margesin and R. Mezzena and H. Ulbricht},
doi = {10.1103/physrevlett.125.100404},
issn = {1079-7114},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Lett.},
volume = {125},
number = {10},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2019
Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A; Paternostro, M; Ulbricht, H
Testing the gravitational field generated by a quantum superposition Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 21, no. 9, 2019, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{Carlesso2019b,
title = {Testing the gravitational field generated by a quantum superposition},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and A Bassi and M Paternostro and H Ulbricht},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/ab41c1},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2019},
date = {2019-09-01},
urldate = {2019-09-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {21},
number = {9},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title>
<jats:p>What gravitational field is generated by a massive quantum system in a spatial superposition? Despite decades of intensive theoretical and experimental research, we still do not know the answer. On the experimental side, the difficulty lies in the fact that gravity is weak and requires large masses to be detectable. However, it becomes increasingly difficult to generate spatial quantum superpositions for increasingly large masses, in light of the stronger environmental effects on such systems. Clearly, a delicate balance between the need for strong gravitational effects and weak decoherence should be found. We show that such a trade off could be achieved in an optomechanics scenario that allows to witness whether the gravitational field generated by a quantum system in a spatial superposition is in a coherent superposition or not. We estimate the magnitude of the effect and show that it offers perspectives for observability.</jats:p>},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
<jats:p>What gravitational field is generated by a massive quantum system in a spatial superposition? Despite decades of intensive theoretical and experimental research, we still do not know the answer. On the experimental side, the difficulty lies in the fact that gravity is weak and requires large masses to be detectable. However, it becomes increasingly difficult to generate spatial quantum superpositions for increasingly large masses, in light of the stronger environmental effects on such systems. Clearly, a delicate balance between the need for strong gravitational effects and weak decoherence should be found. We show that such a trade off could be achieved in an optomechanics scenario that allows to witness whether the gravitational field generated by a quantum system in a spatial superposition is in a coherent superposition or not. We estimate the magnitude of the effect and show that it offers perspectives for observability.</jats:p>
Adler, S L; Bassi, A; Carlesso, Matteo; Vinante, A
Testing continuous spontaneous localization with Fermi liquids Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. D, vol. 99, no. 10, 2019, ISSN: 2470-0029.
@article{Adler2019,
title = {Testing continuous spontaneous localization with Fermi liquids},
author = {S L Adler and A Bassi and Matteo Carlesso and A Vinante},
doi = {10.1103/physrevd.99.103001},
issn = {2470-0029},
journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
volume = {99},
number = {10},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2018
Carlesso, Matteo; Paternostro, Mauro; Ulbricht, Hendrik; Vinante, Andrea; Bassi, Angelo
Non-interferometric test of the continuous spontaneous localization model based on rotational optomechanics Journal Article
In: New J. Phys., vol. 20, no. 8, 2018, ISSN: 1367-2630.
@article{Carlesso2018b,
title = {Non-interferometric test of the continuous spontaneous localization model based on rotational optomechanics},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Mauro Paternostro and Hendrik Ulbricht and Andrea Vinante and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1088/1367-2630/aad863},
issn = {1367-2630},
year = {2018},
date = {2018-08-01},
journal = {New J. Phys.},
volume = {20},
number = {8},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Carlesso, Matteo; Ferialdi, Luca; Bassi, Angelo
Colored collapse models from the non-interferometric perspective Journal Article
In: Eur. Phys. J. D, vol. 72, no. 9, 2018, ISSN: 1434-6079.
@article{Carlesso2018,
title = {Colored collapse models from the non-interferometric perspective},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Luca Ferialdi and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1140/epjd/e2018-90248-x},
issn = {1434-6079},
journal = {Eur. Phys. J. D},
volume = {72},
number = {9},
publisher = {Springer Science and Business Media LLC},
abstract = {
Abstract
Models of spontaneous wave function collapse describe the quantum-to-classical transition by assuming a progressive breakdown of the superposition principle when the mass of the system increases, providing a well-defined phenomenology in terms of a non-linearly and stochastically modified Schrödinger equation, which can be tested experimentally. The most popular of such models is the continuous spontaneous localization (CSL) model: in its original version, the collapse is driven by a white noise, and more recently, generalizations in terms of colored noises, which are more realistic, have been formulated. We will analyze how current non-interferometric tests bound the model, depending on the spectrum of the noise. We will find that low frequency purely mechanical experiments provide the most stable and strongest bounds.
Graphical abstract
},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Models of spontaneous wave function collapse describe the quantum-to-classical transition by assuming a progressive breakdown of the superposition principle when the mass of the system increases, providing a well-defined phenomenology in terms of a non-linearly and stochastically modified Schrödinger equation, which can be tested experimentally. The most popular of such models is the continuous spontaneous localization (CSL) model: in its original version, the collapse is driven by a white noise, and more recently, generalizations in terms of colored noises, which are more realistic, have been formulated. We will analyze how current non-interferometric tests bound the model, depending on the spectrum of the noise. We will find that low frequency purely mechanical experiments provide the most stable and strongest bounds.
Carlesso, Matteo; Vinante, Andrea; Bassi, Angelo
Multilayer test masses to enhance the collapse noise Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 98, no. 2, 2018, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Carlesso2018c,
title = {Multilayer test masses to enhance the collapse noise},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Andrea Vinante and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.98.022122},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {98},
number = {2},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
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}
Nobakht, J.; Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, S.; Paternostro, M.; Bassi, A.
Unitary unraveling for the dissipative continuous spontaneous localization model: Application to optomechanical experiments Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 98, no. 4, 2018, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Nobakht2018,
title = {Unitary unraveling for the dissipative continuous spontaneous localization model: Application to optomechanical experiments},
author = {J. Nobakht and Matteo Carlesso and S. Donadi and M. Paternostro and A. Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.98.042109},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {98},
number = {4},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2017
Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo
Adjoint master equation for quantum Brownian motion Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 95, no. 5, 2017, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{Carlesso2017,
title = {Adjoint master equation for quantum Brownian motion},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.95.052119},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {95},
number = {5},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Vinante, A.; Mezzena, R.; Falferi, P.; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A.
Improved Noninterferometric Test of Collapse Models Using Ultracold Cantilevers Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. Lett., vol. 119, no. 11, 2017, ISSN: 1079-7114.
@article{Vinante2017,
title = {Improved Noninterferometric Test of Collapse Models Using Ultracold Cantilevers},
author = {A. Vinante and R. Mezzena and P. Falferi and Matteo Carlesso and A. Bassi},
doi = {10.1103/physrevlett.119.110401},
issn = {1079-7114},
journal = {Phys. Rev. Lett.},
volume = {119},
number = {11},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
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McMillen, S.; Brunelli, M.; Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, A.; Ulbricht, H.; Paris, M. G. A.; Paternostro, M.
Quantum-limited estimation of continuous spontaneous localization Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. A, vol. 95, no. 1, 2017, ISSN: 2469-9934.
@article{McMillen2017,
title = {Quantum-limited estimation of continuous spontaneous localization},
author = {S. McMillen and M. Brunelli and Matteo Carlesso and A. Bassi and H. Ulbricht and M. G. A. Paris and M. Paternostro},
doi = {10.1103/physreva.95.012132},
issn = {2469-9934},
journal = {Phys. Rev. A},
volume = {95},
number = {1},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
2016
Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo; Falferi, Paolo; Vinante, Andrea
Experimental bounds on collapse models from gravitational wave detectors Journal Article
In: Phys. Rev. D, vol. 94, no. 12, 2016, ISSN: 2470-0029.
@article{Carlesso2016,
title = {Experimental bounds on collapse models from gravitational wave detectors},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi and Paolo Falferi and Andrea Vinante},
doi = {10.1103/physrevd.94.124036},
issn = {2470-0029},
journal = {Phys. Rev. D},
volume = {94},
number = {12},
publisher = {American Physical Society (APS)},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Carlesso, Matteo; Bassi, Angelo
Decoherence due to gravitational time dilation: Analysis of competing decoherence effects Journal Article
In: Physics Letters A, vol. 380, no. 31-32, pp. 2354–2358, 2016, ISSN: 0375-9601.
@article{Carlesso2016b,
title = {Decoherence due to gravitational time dilation: Analysis of competing decoherence effects},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Angelo Bassi},
doi = {10.1016/j.physleta.2016.05.034},
issn = {0375-9601},
journal = {Physics Letters A},
volume = {380},
number = {31-32},
pages = {2354--2358},
publisher = {Elsevier BV},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Book Chapters
2025
Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro
Spontaneous Collapse Models Book Chapter
In: Encyclopedia of Mathematical Physics, pp. 237–253, Elsevier, 2025, ISBN: 9780323957069.
@inbook{Carlesso2025,
title = {Spontaneous Collapse Models},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi},
doi = {10.1016/b978-0-323-95703-8.00104-x},
isbn = {9780323957069},
booktitle = {Encyclopedia of Mathematical Physics},
pages = {237--253},
publisher = {Elsevier},
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Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, S
Spontaneous Collapse Models Book Chapter
In: Encyclopedia of Mathematical Physics, pp. 237–253, Elsevier, 2025, ISBN: 9780323957069.
@inbook{Carlesso2025b,
title = {Spontaneous Collapse Models},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and S Donadi},
doi = {10.1016/b978-0-323-95703-8.00104-x},
isbn = {9780323957069},
booktitle = {Encyclopedia of Mathematical Physics},
pages = {237--253},
publisher = {Elsevier},
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2023
Carlesso, Matteo; Paternostro, Mauro
From Basic Science to Technological Development: The Case for Two Avenues Book Chapter
In: pp. 105–127, Wiley, 2023.
@inbook{Carlesso2023,
title = {From Basic Science to Technological Development: The Case for Two Avenues},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Mauro Paternostro},
doi = {10.1002/9783527837427.ch6},
year = {2023},
date = {2023-05-05},
urldate = {2023-05-05},
pages = {105--127},
publisher = {Wiley},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
2019
Carlesso, Matteo; Donadi, Sandro
Collapse Models: Main Properties and the State of Art of the Experimental Tests Book Chapter
In: Springer Proceedings in Physics, pp. 1–13, Springer International Publishing, 2019, ISBN: 9783030311469.
@inbook{Carlesso2019,
title = {Collapse Models: Main Properties and the State of Art of the Experimental Tests},
author = {Matteo Carlesso and Sandro Donadi},
doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-31146-9_1},
isbn = {9783030311469},
booktitle = {Springer Proceedings in Physics},
pages = {1--13},
publisher = {Springer International Publishing},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
Proceedings
2023
Carlesso, Matteo
Collapse models and gravitational decoherence at test: how far can we push the limits of quantum mechanics? Proceedings
SPIE, 2023.
@proceedings{Carlesso2023b,
title = {Collapse models and gravitational decoherence at test: how far can we push the limits of quantum mechanics?},
author = {Matteo Carlesso},
editor = {Selim M. Shahriar and Jacob Scheuer},
doi = {10.1117/12.2657706},
year = {2023},
date = {2023-03-08},
urldate = {2023-03-08},
publisher = {SPIE},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {proceedings}
}
Wu, Qiongyuan; Carlesso, Matteo
Non-equilibrium quantum thermodynamics of a particle trapped in a controllable time-varying potential Proceedings
SPIE, 2023.
@proceedings{Wu2023b,
title = {Non-equilibrium quantum thermodynamics of a particle trapped in a controllable time-varying potential},
author = {Qiongyuan Wu and Matteo Carlesso},
editor = {Selim M. Shahriar and Jacob Scheuer},
doi = {10.1117/12.2657707},
year = {2023},
date = {2023-03-08},
urldate = {2023-03-08},
publisher = {SPIE},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
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Biography
Received his PhD in Physics at the University of Trieste in 2018. He worked at the University of Trieste, and later at Queen’s University Belfast, UK. He is now a research associate at the University of Trieste. His research concerns the foundations of quantum mechanics, collapse models, quantum-gravity interplay and their experimental tests.