Progress on quantum simulations of nuclear physics using optical tweezer arrays of ytterbium atoms.

Neutral atoms trapped in regular arrays of optical tweezers have emerged as a leading platform for quantum computation and simulation.  By pairing this versatile platform with the unique atomic structure of ytterbium atoms, our work aims to construct a quantum simulation apparatus uniquely suited to perform simulations of quark-level effective field theories for quantum chromodynamics (QCD). These theories are commonly used to explore low-energy, emergent phenomena in QCD where direct calculations are impossible.  Our apparatus will leverage the ultra-narrow ¹S₀ – ³P₀ “clock” transition in concert with laser coupling between the ³P₀ state and Rydberg states to greatly reduce the technical requirements and complexity of simulations.  Here, we report on progress towards completing our quantum simulation apparatus as well as our future scientific goals.